Spaghetti and meatballs is a dish that dances on your taste buds, with pasta twirling playfully around hearty, savory meatballs. The aroma of simmering tomatoes and herbs wafts through the air, promising comfort and satisfaction with every forkful.
Picture this: a family gathering where laughter fills the room, and everyone digs into a steaming bowl of spaghetti and meatballs. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, creating memories we cherish long after the last bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This spaghetti and meatballs recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- The rich flavors meld perfectly in this comforting dish that appeals to all ages
- Its visual appeal turns any dinner table into a feast for the eyes
- Perfect for cozy family meals or entertaining guests with style!
The first time I served spaghetti and meatballs at home, my kids declared it “the best dinner ever,” leading to an impromptu dance party in the kitchen.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Spaghetti: Choose high-quality pasta for better texture; it holds sauce beautifully and enhances flavor.
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Ground Beef: Opt for an 80/20 mix for juicy meatballs; the fat keeps them tender during cooking.
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Breadcrumbs: Use plain breadcrumbs to bind the meatballs; they soak up moisture while adding texture.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds a nutty depth; avoid pre-grated versions for best results.
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Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates flavor; don’t skimp—it’s a game-changer!
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Eggs: A binding agent that helps hold the meatball mixture together; use large eggs for consistency.
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Canned Tomatoes: Choose quality tomatoes for your sauce; San Marzano is my go-to for sweetness.
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Italian Seasoning: A blend of spices that captures classic Italian flavors; it’s essential for authenticity.
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Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it adds richness to both the sauce and meatballs.
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Fresh Basil or Parsley: Fresh herbs brighten up the dish; sprinkle on top before serving for color and flavor.
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, minced garlic, eggs, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined without overworking it.
Shape the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper as you create each one.
Sear the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add meatballs in batches until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes each batch. Don’t overcrowd!
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add canned tomatoes along with Italian seasoning. Stir well and let it simmer while scraping up those flavorful browned bits from searing.
Add Meatballs to Sauce: Carefully place browned meatballs into the simmering sauce. Cover and cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and flavors meld beautifully.
Cook Spaghetti: While your meatballs are simmering away, cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well but reserve some pasta water for later.
Serve hot with plenty of sauce ladled over spaghetti and garnished with fresh herbs and extra cheese if desired! Enjoy every delightful bite of your homemade spaghetti and meatballs masterpiece!
You Must Know
- Spaghetti and meatballs are a classic dish that brings comfort and joy
- Perfecting the sauce enhances flavors, while fresh herbs add vibrancy
- Remember, a pinch of love is the secret ingredient that elevates this meal to family favorite status
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by making the meatballs first, then let them simmer in sauce while cooking the spaghetti. This sequence ensures flavors meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap beef for turkey or add ricotta to the meatballs for extra creaminess. Experimenting keeps things exciting!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect spaghetti and meatballs, use day-old bread for meatball texture
- Avoid overcrowding the pan while browning meatballs to achieve a nice crust
- Let your sauce simmer longer for deeper flavor development; patience truly rewards you here!
Sharing my first spaghetti and meatballs experience still makes me smile; my friends devoured it, leaving only crumbs as proof of their delight!
FAQ
What type of pasta pairs best with spaghetti and meatballs?
Spaghetti is traditional, but any long pasta like fettuccine works wonderfully too!
Can I make spaghetti and meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare everything a day ahead, refrigerate, then reheat before serving.
How do I prevent my meatballs from falling apart?
Ensure your mixture is well-bound; use breadcrumbs or eggs as binding agents for stability.
Spaghetti and Meatballs
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Spaghetti and meatballs is a beloved classic that combines tender, savory meatballs with perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a rich tomato sauce. This dish is a family favorite, perfect for cozy dinners or entertaining guests. With its comforting flavors and satisfying textures, spaghetti and meatballs creates unforgettable moments around the dinner table.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 large egg
- 28 oz canned San Marzano tomatoes
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the Meatballs: Roll into balls about 1 inch in diameter and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Sear the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs in batches for about 5-7 minutes each.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add canned tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Simmer while scraping up browned bits.
- Add Meatballs to Sauce: Place browned meatballs into the simmering sauce. Cover and cook on low heat for 20-25 minutes.
- Cook Spaghetti: Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente; drain well.
- Serve: Plate spaghetti topped with sauce and meatballs; garnish with fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 400g)
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
