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A close-up of spaghetti with meatballs in a rich tomato sauce, garnished with parsley and Parmesan

Spaghetti and Meatballs

Indulge in the classic flavors of Italy with our Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe, featuring juicy meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce and served over perfectly cooked spaghetti. This easy, family-friendly dish is packed with authentic taste and offers customizable variations to suit any palate. Visit Satisfy Your Cravings for the full recipe and tips to make your next dinner unforgettable!
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:
  • 1 Lb Ground beef (80% lean)
  • 1/2 Lb Ground pork
  • 1/2 Cup Breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 Cup Grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 Cup Fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 Cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 Large egg
  • 1/4 Cup Milk
  • 1 Tsp Salt
  • 1/2 Tsp Black pepper
  • 1/2 Tsp Dried oregano
For the Sauce:
  • 2 Tbsp Olive oil
  • 1 Medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 Cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 28 Oz Can of crushed tomatoes
  • 1 14.5 Oz Can of diced tomatoes
  • 1 Tbsp Tomato paste
  • 1 Tsp Sugar (optional)
  • 1 Tsp Salt
  • 1/2 Tsp Black pepper
  • 1 Tsp Dried basil
  • 1 Tsp Dried oregano
  • 1/4 Cup Fresh basil, chopped (optional)
For the Spaghetti:
  • 1 Lb spaghetti
  • Salt for boiling water
Garnish:
  • Grated parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl – For combining the meatball ingredients.
  • Baking Sheet – To place the meatballs on if you're baking them.
  • Large Skillet or Sauté Pan – For browning the meatballs and cooking the sauce.
  • Tongs or Slotted Spoon – For turning the meatballs while browning them.
  • Large Pot – For boiling the spaghetti.
  • Colander – For draining the cooked pasta.
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula – For stirring the sauce.
  • Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board – For chopping ingredients like onions, garlic, and herbs.
  • Grater – For grating Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended).
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring ingredients.
  • Serving Plates or Bowls – To serve the final dish.

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
    In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, egg, milk, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
    Tip: Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients without overworking the meat. This ensures tender meatballs.
    Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs, placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
    Tip: If the mixture is too sticky, lightly dampen your hands with water to make rolling easier.
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. You can also bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes if you prefer a less greasy option.
    Tip: Ensure the meatballs are not overcrowded in the pan. Brown them in batches if necessary.
  2. Step 2: Make the Sauce
    In the same skillet (after removing the meatballs), add more olive oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion over medium heat until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
    Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
    Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar (optional), salt, pepper, dried basil, and oregano. Simmer the sauce on low heat for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
    Tip: Taste the sauce after 10 minutes of simmering and adjust seasoning if necessary. If the sauce is too acidic, add a pinch of sugar to balance it out.
    Gently place the browned meatballs into the sauce and simmer for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the meatballs to absorb the sauce's flavor.
  3. Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti
    While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
    Tip: Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti. This starchy water can be added to the sauce to adjust consistency if needed.
  4. Step 4: Assemble and Serve
    Drain the spaghetti and divide it among serving plates.
    Top with meatballs and spoon the rich tomato sauce over the pasta.
    Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
    Serve hot and enjoy!