Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe for All Occasions

Name: Spaghetti and Meatballs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 24 oz tomato sauce; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; Fresh basil (for garnish)

Published: June 26, 2025

by Clara Harper

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This spaghetti and meatballs recipe requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor that will impress anyone around your table.
It’s totally customizable; you can adjust ingredients based on your pantry’s contents.
The vibrant red sauce against the golden pasta creates a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to please everyone.
Perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings with friends!

There were moments of laughter as my family dove into their plates, twirling noodles like seasoned pros or creating elaborate designs with their meatballs.

Essential Ingredients

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

Spaghetti: Use high-quality spaghetti for the best texture; look for brands that specify “durum wheat” for optimal chewiness.
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for juicy meatballs without excessive fat; it keeps them tender but not greasy.
Breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs work wonders in keeping your meatballs moist; consider making some by pulsing stale bread in a food processor.
Eggs: Use large eggs as they bind everything together in your meatball mixture; no one likes crumbly meatballs!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds depth of flavor; avoid pre-grated versions as they lack freshness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential here; use whole cloves instead of powder for a more robust flavor.
Tomato Sauce: Opt for quality canned tomatoes or homemade sauce; it’s worth the extra effort for richer flavors.
Fresh Basil: Add fresh basil towards the end of cooking to retain its bright flavor; dried herbs are great but fresh is better!
Pasta Water: Reserve some starchy water from boiling pasta to adjust the sauce consistency later if needed.

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

Let’s Make it together

Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well-combined but don’t overwork it!

Shape Your Meatballs: Using your hands (or an ice cream scoop if you want to feel fancy), form golf-ball-sized meatballs from your mixture. Aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly!

Sear the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides until golden brown—about 5 minutes—transferring them to a plate afterward.

Add Tomato Sauce: In the same skillet (do not wipe it clean), pour in your tomato sauce along with any leftover bits from searing—those bits are flavor gold! Bring it to a gentle simmer.

Cook the Pasta: While your sauce simmers, boil salted water in another pot and add spaghetti. Cook according to package instructions until al dente—don’t forget to reserve some pasta water!

Add Meatballs Back In!: Once the sauce is bubbling gently, return those beautiful browned meatballs back into the skillet. Simmer everything together for about 15-20 minutes so flavors meld beautifully.

Now it’s time! Serve generously plated with spaghetti twirled atop forks or heaped onto plates with extra Parmesan sprinkled on top for good measure.

This experience goes beyond just cooking—it’s about gathering loved ones around a table filled with warmth and laughter while enjoying scrumptious food together! Don’t be surprised if everyone asks for seconds (or thirds)!

You Must Know

Spaghetti and meatballs are not just a meal; they’re a heartwarming experience.
The rich aroma fills your kitchen, making everyone feel at home.
With their comforting textures and delightful flavors, they are perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by making the meatballs first; while they bake, cook the pasta and prepare the sauce. This way, everything comes together perfectly, and you’ll save time for more important things, like contemplating what to binge-watch next.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out breadcrumbs for crushed crackers or add some red pepper flakes for a kick. Experimenting with different herbs can also elevate your sauce and make it uniquely yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so on low heat to keep meatballs tender and prevent them from drying out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use lean ground beef instead of fatty cuts; this prevents greasy meatballs.
Ensure equal-sized meatballs for even cooking; nobody likes a raw center!
Always let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes; this deepens the flavors beautifully.

Cooking spaghetti and meatballs always brings back memories of family dinners where laughter was as abundant as the sauce.

FAQ

How do I prevent my meatballs from falling apart?

Add an egg or some grated cheese to bind your mixture together better.

Can I use whole wheat spaghetti instead?

Absolutely! Whole wheat adds great flavor and a nutritious twist to your dish.

What should I serve with spaghetti and meatballs?

A fresh salad or garlic bread complements this dish wonderfully for balance.

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