Ultimate Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe for Cozy Nights

Name: Spaghetti and Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti; 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 2 tbsp olive oil

Recipe By:

Ruth

Posted:

August 9, 2025

Updated:

August 9, 2025

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The aroma of simmering tomato sauce wafts through the air, mingling with the savory scent of meatballs sizzling in a pan. This Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe promises to transport you straight to a cozy Italian kitchen, where every bite feels like a warm hug.

Picture this: as a child, I would eagerly await family gatherings, where Grandma would whip up her legendary spaghetti and meatballs. The laughter and love were as rich as the sauce itself, making it a cherished memory that I now recreate in my own kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe is not just delicious; it’s incredibly easy to prepare for any weeknight dinner
Bursting with flavors, it appeals to both kids and adults alike
The vibrant colors of the sauce paired with the golden-brown meatballs make for an eye-catching dish
Versatile enough for a casual family meal or an impressive dinner party showstopper

Ingredients for Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

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

Spaghetti: A classic choice that pairs perfectly with the hearty sauce and meatballs, opt for whole wheat or gluten-free if desired.
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef to keep your meatballs juicy without excess grease; turkey or pork are great substitutes too.
Breadcrumbs: Fresh or dried breadcrumbs help bind your meatballs together while adding texture; seasoned varieties add extra flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan elevates the taste of your meatballs and sauce, bringing a nutty richness to every bite.

For the Sauce:

Canned Crushed Tomatoes: Look for high-quality tomatoes that offer vibrant flavor; they are the base of your rich sauce.
Fresh Basil: Use fresh basil leaves for a burst of herbal brightness; dried basil can work in a pinch but lacks freshness.

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

Recipe preparation for Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

How to Make Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

Getting Started on Meatballs

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper until well mixed. Form into golf ball-sized meatballs; they’ll puff up beautifully when cooked.

Browning the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches without crowding them. Sear until they turn golden brown on all sides—about five minutes—releasing mouthwatering aromas that will have you drooling.

Simmering the Sauce

In another pot, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until translucent. Pour in crushed tomatoes along with salt, pepper, and fresh basil. Let this simmer gently while you focus on cooking spaghetti.

Cooking the Spaghetti

Bring salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually around eight to ten minutes. Drain but reserve some pasta water if needed for your sauce.

Combining Everything

Once your meatballs are browned and sauce has thickened nicely after about twenty minutes of simmering, gently add them into the sauce. Stir carefully so as not to break them apart while allowing their flavors to meld together for about ten minutes.

Serving It Up

To serve, twirl spaghetti on plates using tongs or forks before generously ladling over that fragrant tomato sauce alongside those succulent meatballs. Top with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if you’re feeling fancy!

The moment you take that first bite of this Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe is nothing short of magical—an explosion of flavors that transports you straight back to those unforgettable family gatherings! Enjoy every delicious morsel!

You Must Know

This Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe is not just a classic dish; it’s an experience
You’ll fall in love with how the flavors meld together, creating a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate
Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by making the meatballs first. Combine your ground beef, breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices, then shape them into balls. While they brown in the pan, boil your spaghetti in salted water and prepare the sauce simultaneously for maximum efficiency and delightful results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to mix up this Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe! Swap out beef for turkey or add some grated cheese to the meat mixture. Toss in fresh basil or oregano to elevate your sauce, or even add veggies like zucchini for extra nutrients.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover spaghetti and meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until hot, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always let your meatballs rest before cooking; it helps them hold their shape
Don’t skip salting your pasta water—seasoned water enhances flavor
Finally, finish cooking your spaghetti in the sauce for better flavor absorption

I remember the first time I made this Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe for my friends. They declared it was so good it could win awards—who knew my kitchen could host such culinary genius?

FAQs:

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

To create a delicious Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe, you will need several key ingredients. Start with spaghetti pasta, ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, garlic, and onion for the meatballs. For the sauce, use canned tomatoes, olive oil, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. This combination brings out rich flavors in every bite. Feel free to customize your meatballs by adding cheese or herbs according to your taste. With these simple ingredients, you’ll be on your way to making a hearty meal that everyone will love.

How long does it take to cook Spaghetti and Meatballs?

Cooking Spaghetti and Meatballs typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish. First, prepare the meatballs by mixing the ingredients and shaping them into balls; this usually takes around 10 minutes. Next, allow the meatballs to cook in a simmering sauce for 20 minutes while you boil the spaghetti. Ensure both components are perfectly cooked before combining them for serving. This quick cooking time makes this recipe ideal for busy weeknights when you crave a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Can I make Spaghetti and Meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare your Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe ahead of time. The meatballs can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days or frozen for longer storage. When ready to serve, simply reheat them in your sauce while boiling fresh spaghetti. This strategy allows you to save time during hectic dinner nights while still enjoying a homemade meal. Just remember that storing the meatballs separately from the pasta helps maintain their texture until you’re ready to serve.

What is the best way to serve Spaghetti and Meatballs?

The best way to serve your Spaghetti and Meatballs is by plating them attractively. Start by placing a generous portion of spaghetti on each plate and layering it with meatballs on top. Drizzle with extra sauce and sprinkle fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese as a finishing touch. This presentation not only enhances the dish’s visual appeal but also adds flavor. Pair it with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Conclusion for Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe:

In conclusion, this classic Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors that appeals to all ages. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple cooking steps, it’s an excellent choice for any occasion. Preparing ahead allows you to enjoy homemade comfort food even on busy days. Remember to customize your meatball mix for added flair, whether through herbs or cheeses. Serve hot with extra sauce and toppings for an unforgettable dining experience that keeps everyone coming back for more!

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