There’s something magical about the moment spaghetti and meatballs come together. Picture this: a heaping plate of twirly spaghetti, drizzled with rich, aromatic tomato sauce, topped with juicy meatballs that seem to burst with flavor. Each bite is like a warm hug from your Italian grandmother—if only we could all have one of those! The steam rises as you dig in, filling the air with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone to the table. For more inspiration, check out this lunch ideas recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Spaghetti and Meatballs</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What can I serve with spaghetti and meatballs?
- Can I freeze spaghetti and meatballs?
- What’s the best way to prevent meatballs from falling apart?
- 📖 Recipe Card
As I recall my childhood dinners, when the whole family gathered around the table, there was always a plate of spaghetti and meatballs in the center. I remember my little brother trying to twirl his spaghetti like a pro, only to end up wearing half of it on his face. It wasn’t just a meal; it was an event filled with laughter and love. This dish perfectly captures those moments, making it ideal for family gatherings or cozy date nights. Get ready to experience flavors that will make your taste buds dance! For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- It’s a cinch to whip up with simple ingredients that pack a flavorful punch
- Your kitchen will smell heavenly as you cook, creating an inviting atmosphere
- Visually stunning with vibrant colors and textures that will impress any guest
- Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual weekday dinner or a festive celebration
I can still hear my mom’s delighted laughter as she watched us tackle our plates full of spaghetti and meatballs.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Spaghetti: Opt for high-quality pasta; it makes all the difference in texture and flavor.
- Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for juicy meatballs without excessive fat.
- Breadcrumbs: Use plain breadcrumbs to bind the meatballs while adding subtle texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan elevates both the meatballs and sauce with its rich flavor.
- Eggs: Eggs help bind your meatball mixture; they also add moisture for tenderness.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of good olive oil enhances flavor in your sauce and while cooking meatballs.
For the Sauce:
- Canned Tomatoes: San Marzano tomatoes are perfect for an authentic Italian flavor—sweet and rich!
- Onion: Use sweet onions for a balanced flavor profile that complements your sauce beautifully.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring a fragrant depth to your sauce; don’t skimp on this!
- Herbs (Basil & Oregano): Fresh herbs give your dish an extra kick; dried can work in a pinch!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Spaghetti and Meatballs
Create the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, beaten eggs, salt, pepper, and minced garlic until well mixed but not overworked; shape into small balls.
Sear the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches; cook until browned on all sides—about 5-7 minutes—and remove from skillet.
Sauté Aromatics for Sauce: In the same skillet, add chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant—just about 30 seconds is usually enough.
Add Tomatoes and Herbs: Pour canned tomatoes into the skillet along with dried oregano and fresh basil; simmer gently for 15 minutes until flavors meld beautifully.
Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Return seared meatballs into the sauce; reduce heat to low and let them simmer together for another 10-15 minutes so they soak up all that glorious flavor.
Cook Spaghetti Al Dente : In a separate pot, boil salted water and cook spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions—remember not to overcook!
Serve this hearty platter of spaghetti topped generously with your delicious meatballs and sauce! Don’t forget to sprinkle more Parmesan cheese on top for that extra touch!
Now you have an easy yet delightful recipe that captures warmth from every bite! Enjoy making memories around your dining table just like I did!
You Must Know
- The aroma of simmering garlic and herbs fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere
- Tender meatballs add a delightful texture, while the sauce’s vibrant color makes every plate pop
- Perfect with a sprinkle of Parmesan, this dish turns any mealtime into a celebration
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sauté the garlic and onions first, then mix and shape the meatballs while the sauce simmers. This sequence maximizes flavor and efficiency, ensuring everything comes together beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground turkey for beef or add spinach for extra nutrients. Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to elevate this classic dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store spaghetti and meatballs in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain texture and flavor; avoid microwaving if possible.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use day-old bread for meatballs; it keeps them moist without becoming too dense
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying; it ensures even cooking and browning
- Let your sauce simmer longer for deeper flavors that make your dish unforgettable
Cooking spaghetti and meatballs always reminds me of family gatherings filled with laughter and endless plate refills, where everyone leaves happy—and a little stuffed.
FAQ
What can I serve with spaghetti and meatballs?
Garlic bread or a fresh garden salad pairs wonderfully with spaghetti and meatballs.
Can I freeze spaghetti and meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze them! Store in airtight containers for up to three months.
What’s the best way to prevent meatballs from falling apart?
Use breadcrumbs as a binder; they help hold everything together during cooking.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Spaghetti and Meatballs
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four
Description
Spaghetti and meatballs is a beloved classic that brings warmth and joy to any dinner table. Featuring twirly spaghetti drenched in rich tomato sauce and juicy, homemade meatballs, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll have a comforting meal ready to serve in no time. Get ready to savor every bite of this nostalgic favorite!
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 28 oz canned San Marzano tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, pepper, and minced garlic; mix until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; add meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides (5-7 minutes). Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion until translucent, then add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Pour in the canned tomatoes along with oregano and basil; simmer for 15 minutes.
- Return meatballs to the sauce; simmer together for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente; drain.
- Serve spaghetti topped with meatballs and sauce; garnish with extra Parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup spaghetti with meatballs (250g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
