Description
This Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe combines tender homemade meatballs simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce served over perfectly cooked spaghetti. A classic, comforting Italian-American dish that’s simple to prepare and perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Spaghetti and Sauce:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and shape the mixture into 1-inch diameter meatballs.
- Brown the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the pan and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then add dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer Meatballs in Sauce: Return the browned meatballs to the sauce. Let everything simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to allow flavors to meld.
- Cook Spaghetti: While the meatballs are simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Serve: Plate the cooked spaghetti and top with meatballs and plenty of sauce. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef.
- Breadcrumbs can be replaced with gluten-free alternatives if needed.
- To enhance flavor, let the sauce simmer longer if time permits.
- Red pepper flakes are optional and can be omitted for a milder sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
