The tantalizing aroma of spaghetti and meatballs wafts through the air, beckoning you closer with its warm embrace. Picture perfectly cooked spaghetti, twirling around your fork like a dance partner, generously coated in a rich, savory tomato sauce dotted with succulent meatballs. The experience is nothing short of culinary euphoria.
This dish has a special place in my heart; it reminds me of family gatherings filled with laughter, where the table overflows with love and carbs. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or an extravagant holiday feast, spaghetti and meatballs never fails to bring people together over a shared plate of happiness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This classic spaghetti and meatballs recipe is incredibly easy to prepare for even novice cooks
- With bold flavors and comforting aromas, it’s sure to impress everyone around the table
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing, inviting everyone to dig in
- Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish is endlessly adaptable to suit any palate
I still remember the first time I made spaghetti and meatballs for my friends; their delighted reactions were priceless as they devoured every last bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Spaghetti: Choose your favorite pasta; I recommend al dente for that perfect bite.
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Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for juicy meatballs without too much grease.
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Breadcrumbs: Freshly grated breadcrumbs add texture; stale ones work too in a pinch.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grate it fresh for optimal flavor; trust me, it makes a difference.
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Egg: Acts as a binder for the meatballs, keeping them tender yet firm.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring irresistible flavor—don’t skimp on this one!
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Italian Herbs: A mix of oregano and basil gives the sauce that authentic Italian flair.
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Canned Tomatoes: Opt for whole peeled tomatoes; they create a rich sauce when crushed.
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Olive Oil: Use quality extra virgin olive oil for sautéing and drizzling.
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Sugar: A pinch balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.
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, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, and Italian herbs. Mix until just combined but avoid overworking it to keep them tender.
Shape the Meatballs: With damp hands (to prevent sticking), shape mixture into 1-inch balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet while you heat up your skillet.
Sear the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add meatballs in batches until browned all sides; about five minutes will do. Set aside once golden brown.
Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed and sauté minced garlic until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Pour in canned tomatoes and sugar; season with salt and pepper.
Add Meatballs to Sauce: Carefully place seared meatballs into the bubbling sauce. Let them simmer together gently for about 20 minutes until cooked through and infused with flavor.
Cook Spaghetti Al Dente : While the meatballs simmer away, cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain carefully but reserve some pasta water—it can help adjust sauce consistency later.
Now you have all the elements ready! Toss spaghetti with sauce directly or serve separately topped with those glorious meatballs waiting patiently on top. Enjoy this delightful dish that brings warmth to any table!
You Must Know
- The secret to delicious spaghetti and meatballs lies in the seasoning
- Use fresh herbs and quality meat for the best results
- The aroma of simmering sauce will make your kitchen feel like a cozy Italian trattoria
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve spaghetti and meatballs perfection, start by cooking the meatballs first, then simmer them in sauce while boiling the spaghetti. This saves time and enhances flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef with turkey or add grated Parmesan to the meat mixture for extra flavor. A splash of red wine in the sauce can elevate everything.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container, refrigerating for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat on the stove for best texture and temperature.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect meatballs, consider chilling them before cooking to maintain their shape
- Don’t skip browning them first; it adds depth of flavor to your sauce
- Lastly, always taste your sauce before serving; adjusting seasoning is key!
Cooking spaghetti and meatballs always reminds me of family gatherings where everyone was too busy eating to chat. Those moments are priceless!
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat pasta for spaghetti and meatballs?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds fiber and flavor without compromising texture.
What type of meat is best for meatballs?
A mix of ground beef and pork creates tender, flavorful meatballs that everyone will love.
How long should I simmer the sauce?
Simmer your sauce for at least 30 minutes to develop rich flavors and aromas that tantalize taste buds.
Delicious Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
Indulge in the comfort of homemade spaghetti and meatballs, a classic dish that combines perfectly cooked pasta with savory meatballs in a rich tomato sauce. This recipe is simple enough for beginners and brings family and friends together around the dining table, creating moments filled with laughter and joy. With bold flavors and an inviting aroma, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing/Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 28 oz canned whole peeled tomatoes
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, oregano, and basil. Mix gently until combined.
- Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs using damp hands. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear meatballs until browned on all sides (about 5 minutes). Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds. Add canned tomatoes, sugar, salt, and pepper; stir well.
- Return meatballs to the sauce and simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente; drain while reserving some pasta water.
- Toss spaghetti with sauce or serve separately topped with meatballs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
