Name: Spaghetti and Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 28 oz canned whole peeled tomatoes; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; Fresh basil and oregano to taste

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

When you hear “Spaghetti and Meatballs,” what comes to mind? Is it the warm aroma wafting through your kitchen or perhaps that classic scene from Lady and the Tramp? Picture it now: a plate filled with twirling spaghetti, nestled next to beautifully browned meatballs that are practically begging for a fork. The rich tomato sauce glistens under the lights like a culinary masterpiece. Now stop drooling; we’re getting to the good stuff!

This delightful dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience! It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or as a comforting treat after a long day. I remember making this dish during chilly evenings when laughter echoed around the dinner table, everyone eagerly awaiting their share of this Italian classic. The anticipation builds as you promise an explosion of flavor with every bite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful spaghetti and meatballs recipe is simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive for special occasions
The flavor combination is irresistible, bringing warmth and comfort in every bite
With vibrant colors from fresh herbs and sauces, it makes an appealing centerpiece on any table
Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt based on what you have in your pantry!

My friends always rave about my spaghetti and meatballs; they say it’s like getting a warm hug from Italy!

Essential Ingredients

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

Spaghetti: Opt for high-quality pasta; it holds onto sauce better and gives you that perfect chewy texture.
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for juicy meatballs without being too greasy; nobody likes soggy meat!
Breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs work best for added moisture; feel free to use store-bought if time is tight.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate your own cheese if possible; it adds richer flavor compared to pre-packaged options.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings out robust flavors; avoid powdered garlic unless you want blandness!
Canned Tomatoes: Look for whole peeled tomatoes; they make richer sauces when crushed at home.
Basil and Oregano: Fresh herbs elevate your dish’s taste profile; dried herbs can work in a pinch.

For the Sauce:

Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for cooking; it enhances flavors while providing healthy fats.
Onion: A finely chopped onion sweats beautifully in oil, adding sweetness to balance acidity in tomatoes.
Salt and Pepper: Don’t skimp on seasoning! They are essential in bringing out all those lovely flavors.

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

Let’s Make it together

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper while you prepare your meatball mixture.

Create the Meatball Mixture: In a big bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is well combined but don’t overwork it—nobody likes tough meatballs!

Shape Your Meatballs: Roll about two tablespoons of mixture into balls—aim for golf-ball size. Place them evenly spaced on your baking sheet so they can roast beautifully.

Bake Those Meatballs: Pop them into your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown. You’ll know they’re done when they’re sizzling away like they’re at an Italian fiesta!

Sauté Your Sauce: While those glorious meatballs are baking away, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until translucent—smell that heavenly aroma?

Add Tomatoes: Pour in the canned tomatoes along with any juices. Crush them gently as they cook down into a luscious sauce infused with garlic magic.

Toss Everything Together: When your meatballs are ready (and smelling fantastic), transfer them into the sauce pan. Let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes so that flavors can meld into pure bliss.

Now all that’s left is to cook your spaghetti according to package instructions—al dente is key here! Drain well but leave some pasta water behind to adjust sauce consistency if needed.

Serve your spaghetti topped lavishly with those glorious saucy meatballs along with more Parmesan cheese sprinkled generously on top!

And voilà! You’ve not only created an epic meal but also set yourself up as the hero of dinner time! Enjoy every twirl of pasta and each succulent bite of tender meatball bursting with flavor.

Happy feasting!

You Must Know

Spaghetti and Meatballs is a classic dish that brings comfort to any table
Perfecting this recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, from the savory meatballs to the tangy tomato sauce
Prepare to impress your family and friends with this crowd-pleaser!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by prepping your ingredients: roll meatballs while the sauce simmers, then cook spaghetti last for optimal timing.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground turkey for beef or mix in some chopped spinach for extra health benefits.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until hot.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Achieving perfect spaghetti and meatballs requires attention to detail, from seasoning to cooking times
Don’t rush the simmering process; let those flavors develop beautifully
Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Making spaghetti and meatballs always reminds me of my grandmother, who would serve it every Sunday. It was her way of bringing the family together, and those memories are priceless.

FAQ

What type of meat works best for spaghetti and meatballs?

Ground beef or turkey are both excellent choices for flavorful meatballs.

Can I make meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and freeze them for later use without losing flavor.

How do I know when my meatballs are done?

Use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.