Ultimate Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe for Flavor Lovers

The aroma of simmering tomato sauce fills the air, mingling with the scent of freshly baked meatballs, creating a symphony of flavors that can only mean one thing: it’s time for the ultimate spaghetti and meatballs recipe. Picture this: twirling your fork around perfectly cooked spaghetti, glistening with a rich, savory sauce that clings lovingly to each strand while tender meatballs dance alongside like they own the plate.

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Now, let’s be real—who doesn’t have a heartwarming memory tied to this dish? Maybe it’s a family dinner where your grandmother stirred the pot with love or a cozy night in with friends and enough pasta to feed an army. No matter the occasion, spaghetti and meatballs always delivers that comforting feeling of home. And trust me, once you take a bite of this mouthwatering meal, you’ll be floating on clouds of flavor bliss.

Ingredients for Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Spaghetti: Use high-quality dried spaghetti for the best texture; cook until al dente for that perfect bite.

• Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the meatballs juicy without excess grease.

• Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs to help bind the meatballs together while adding flavor.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty depth that elevates both the meatballs and sauce.

• Eggs: One large egg helps bind everything together in those glorious meatballs.

For the Sauce:

• Canned Tomatoes: Use whole or crushed tomatoes—either way, they should be San Marzano for unmatched sweetness.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves deliver robust flavor; don’t skimp on them!

• Onion: A finely chopped onion brings sweetness when sautéed until translucent.

• Italian Seasoning: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme gives your sauce that classic Italian flair.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

Getting Started:

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), which sets the stage for baking those delightful meatballs until golden brown. While that’s happening, cook your spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente; nobody wants mushy noodles in their life.

Making the Meatball Mixture:

In a large bowl, combine ground beef with breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped onion, eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix using your hands—trust me, it’s oddly satisfying—and form into small balls about the size of golf balls.

Baking the Meatballs:

Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The smell will have you drooling!

Preparing the Sauce:

While those beauties are baking away, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and sweet-smelling—about five minutes should do it! Toss in minced garlic next; be alert because it cooks fast!

Simmering It All Together:

Add canned tomatoes (crushed or whole), along with Italian seasoning to your sautéed onions and garlic. Let this simmer on low heat so all those flavors meld beautifully—about 15-20 minutes is ideal.

Combining Pasta and Sauce:

Once your spaghetti is done cooking (drain but don’t rinse), add it directly into your sauce pan filled with that luscious tomato mixture. Toss well until every strand is coated in deliciousness.

Serving It Up:

Plate up generous portions of spaghetti topped with several glorious meatballs nestled right on top. Finish off with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and perhaps a sprinkle of fresh basil if you’re feeling fancy!

Enjoying Your Dish:

Now comes the best part: dig in! Each bite bursts with flavors that remind you why this classic dish holds such a special place in our hearts—and bellies!

And there you have it—a straightforward yet scrumptious spaghetti and meatballs recipe! Whether it’s an ordinary Tuesday night or an extraordinary Sunday family gathering, this dish never fails to impress or satisfy hunger pangs while warming souls everywhere!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the meatballs. Mix ground beef with breadcrumbs, egg, and spices. Sear them on high heat for flavor, then simmer in a homemade tomato sauce while boiling your spaghetti. This efficient sequence ensures every bite is packed with deliciousness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or veggie options if you’re feeling adventurous! Add fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the sauce for an extra kick, or toss in some sautéed veggies for added nutrition and flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover spaghetti and meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply microwave until hot, or warm gently on the stove with a splash of water to keep it saucy.

Sometimes I whip up this spaghetti and meatballs recipe when I need a little nostalgia. My kids think it’s magic that something so simple can bring everyone together at the dinner table.

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for a Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe?

To make a delicious spaghetti and meatballs recipe, you will need ground beef or a mix of beef and pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, an egg, salt, and pepper for the meatballs. For the spaghetti, you will need dried spaghetti noodles, olive oil, and fresh basil or parsley for garnish. Don’t forget to have marinara sauce ready, either homemade or store-bought, to complement your meatballs. This simple ingredient list ensures that your dish is flavorful yet easy to prepare.

How long does it take to cook Spaghetti and Meatballs?

Cooking spaghetti and meatballs typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the meatballs and another 20 minutes cooking them in the sauce. Meanwhile, cooking the spaghetti usually takes about 10 minutes. If you are preparing homemade marinara sauce, factor in an additional 15-20 minutes for that as well. Overall, this dish is quick enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough for guests.

Can I freeze leftover Spaghetti and Meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze leftover spaghetti and meatballs! To do this effectively, place the cooled leftovers in airtight containers or freezer bags. Make sure to separate the spaghetti from the sauce if possible to maintain texture. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave until heated through. This makes it convenient for meal prep or busy nights when you want a quick dinner.

What variations can I try with my Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe?

There are numerous variations you can explore with your spaghetti and meatballs recipe. For instance, you might use turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. You could also add vegetables like spinach or zucchini into the meat mixture for added nutrition. If you want something different from traditional marinara sauce, consider trying pesto or Alfredo sauce. Each variation offers a unique twist while keeping the essence of this classic dish intact.

Conclusion for Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe :

In conclusion, mastering a spaghetti and meatballs recipe is both satisfying and rewarding. By using fresh ingredients like quality ground meat and flavorful herbs, you can create a comforting meal that pleases everyone at your table. Remember to adjust cooking times based on your chosen variations to achieve perfect results every time. Whether you’re enjoying it on a casual weeknight or serving it at a dinner party, this dish remains a timeless favorite that’s sure to impress!

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Spaghetti and Meatballs

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Spaghetti and meatballs is a beloved classic that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This easy-to-follow recipe features al dente spaghetti swathed in a rich, savory tomato sauce, accompanied by tender, juicy meatballs. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this dish is sure to evoke cherished memories and delight taste buds.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz dried spaghetti
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 28 oz canned San Marzano tomatoes (whole or crushed)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into meatballs about the size of golf balls.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20 minutes until golden brown.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion until translucent; add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Stir in canned tomatoes and Italian seasoning; let simmer for 15–20 minutes.
7. Toss drained spaghetti in the sauce until well coated; serve topped with baked meatballs.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (about 350g)
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey for beef. Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor. Leftover spaghetti and meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days or frozen for later enjoyment.