Ah, spaghetti and meatballs—a dish that brings back warm memories of family dinners, laughter, and the irresistible aroma wafting from the kitchen. Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a special occasion, this classic recipe is sure to create lasting moments. Best of all, it’s super easy and quick to whip up, making it a go-to recipe that you’ll keep returning to!
Why You’ll Love Spaghetti and Meatballs
- Fast
- Easy
- Giftable
- Crowd-pleasing
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful dish:
- For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef – I like to use a blend with a bit of fat for juiciness.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – These help bind the meatballs and give them a nice texture.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a lovely cheesy flavor.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley – Fresh herbs brighten up the dish.
- 1 clove garlic, minced – Because garlic makes everything better!
- 1 large egg – This helps hold the meatball mixture together.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for making the flavors pop.
- For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing and adding richness.
- 1 onion, chopped – A great base for the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – More garlic, yes please!
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes – The heart of the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – A classic Italian herb.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil – Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Always important!
- For the Spaghetti:
- 12 ounces spaghetti – The perfect pasta to pair with meatballs.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving) – Because more cheese is always a good idea!
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish) – They make it look beautiful.
How to Make Spaghetti and Meatballs
Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is just combined. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Cook the Meatballs: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until they are browned on all sides. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until softened, then stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring it all to a simmer.
- Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Return the browned meatballs to the skillet with the sauce. Cover and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through.
- Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Serve: Plate the spaghetti and top it with the meatballs and sauce. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for that extra touch.
Substitutions & Additions
Feel free to get creative! Here are some ideas:
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add some red pepper flakes to the sauce if you like a bit of heat.
- Mix in some chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.
Tips for Success
Here are some tips to help you nail this recipe:
- Don’t overmix the meatball mixture; this keeps them tender.
- If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
- You can make the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them for a quick meal later. Just thaw and cook in the sauce!
How to Store Spaghetti and Meatballs
If you have leftovers (which is rare, but can happen!), here’s how to store them:
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- You can freeze the meatballs and sauce separately for up to 3 months. Just thaw before reheating!
FAQs
- Can I use whole wheat spaghetti? Absolutely! Whole wheat spaghetti is a great option for added fiber.
- What can I serve with spaghetti and meatballs? A simple side salad or garlic bread complements this dish perfectly.
- Can I make meatballs without breadcrumbs? Yes! You can use oatmeal or crushed crackers as a substitute.
And there you have it! A delicious, comforting plate of spaghetti and meatballs. For more delicious recipes, check out Dash and Dollop or this cozy minced beef recipe for treats you will love!
Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more delicious inspiration!
Delicious Spaghetti and Meatballs
Ah, spaghetti and meatballs—a dish that brings back warm memories of family dinners, laughter, and the irresistible aroma wafting from the kitchen. Whether it's a casual weeknight meal or a special occasion, this classic recipe is sure to create lasting moments. Best of all, it's super easy and quick to whip up, making it a go-to recipe that you’ll keep returning to!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is just combined. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until they are browned on all sides. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until softened, then stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring it all to a simmer.
- Step 4: Return the browned meatballs to the skillet with the sauce. Cover and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through.
- Step 5: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Step 6: Plate the spaghetti and top it with the meatballs and sauce. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for that extra touch.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can freeze the meatballs and sauce separately for up to 3 months. Just thaw before reheating!