A glorious plate of Spaghetti with Meatballs is like a warm hug on a chilly day, inviting you into a world where flavors dance and aromas linger. Picture this: perfectly cooked spaghetti tangled with juicy, herbed meatballs, all smothered in a rich tomato sauce that sings with garlic and basil. Each bite is an adventure, where the comforting taste of nostalgia meets the thrill of culinary delight.
Now, if you’re anything like me, spaghetti night is akin to a mini celebration. It’s the kind of meal that can transform a dull Tuesday into an exciting family feast. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for two or a raucous gathering of friends, this dish brings everyone together around the table—spaghetti slurping and meatball munching included.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The spaghetti with meatballs recipe combines ease of preparation with a flavor profile that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Its visual appeal makes it the star of any dinner table, and its versatility means you can enjoy it on any occasion—from casual weeknights to festive gatherings
Ingredients for Spaghetti with Meatballs
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Spaghetti Pasta: Choose high-quality pasta for a delightful texture that holds sauce beautifully.
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Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the meatballs juicy without being overly greasy.
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Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs to add texture and help bind your meatballs.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds depth of flavor and richness to both meatballs and sauce.
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Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the dish with its aromatic charm; don’t skip it!
For the Sauce:
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Canned Crushed Tomatoes: Look for high-quality tomatoes for a rich, flavorful base; San Marzano are my favorite.
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Fresh Basil: Nothing beats fresh basil when added at the end; it brightens up your sauce beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Spaghetti with Meatballs
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients on the counter. This way, you won’t find yourself frantically searching for breadcrumbs while your meatball mixture sits awkwardly.
Step 2: Make the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and one egg. Mix gently until combined but don’t overdo it—no one wants tough meatballs! Form into golf ball-sized balls and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add your meatballs (in batches if necessary) and cook until browned on all sides—about 5-7 minutes. They don’t need to be fully cooked through since they’ll finish cooking in the sauce later.
Step 4: Create Your Sauce
Remove meatballs from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet (because who has time for extra dishes?), add canned crushed tomatoes along with more garlic and seasonings. Let simmer for about ten minutes; let those flavors meld together like best friends at a reunion.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Carefully return your browned meatballs back into the sauce. Allow them to simmer together for another fifteen minutes so they soak up that luscious tomato goodness.
Step 6: Cook Your Spaghetti
While that’s happening, bring salted water to boil in another pot and cook your spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain it well but save some pasta water just in case!
Now that you’ve mastered this classic dish, transfer everything onto plates or into bowls. Top generously with fresh basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese because why not? You deserve it! Enjoy your delicious plate of spaghetti with meatballs while relishing every last bite—your taste buds will thank you!
You Must Know
- Spaghetti with meatballs is not just a meal; it’s an experience
- With rich flavors and comforting aromas, this dish can turn any dinner into a special occasion
- It’s perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or just when you’re craving some good old comfort food
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve spaghetti with meatballs bliss, start by preparing the meatballs. While they bake, boil your pasta to al dente perfection. Finally, simmer your sauce to meld those flavors before combining everything together for a saucy masterpiece.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to switch up the meat in your meatballs—ground turkey or chicken works wonders. Want a spicy kick? Add red pepper flakes! You can also customize your sauce with fresh herbs or even a splash of red wine for extra depth.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover spaghetti with meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect spaghetti with meatballs, don’t skip chilling the meatball mixture before shaping them; it helps maintain their form while cooking
- Always taste your sauce as you go; adjusting seasonings makes all the difference
- Lastly, don’t forget to reserve some pasta water—it’s liquid gold for creating a luscious sauce!
Sometimes I whip up spaghetti with meatballs for my friends, and they always rave about how it transports them back to their childhood kitchen tables filled with laughter and love—nothing beats that feeling!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Spaghetti with Meatballs?
To make delicious spaghetti with meatballs, you will need spaghetti noodles, ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, onion, and herbs like basil and oregano. For the sauce, use canned tomatoes or tomato sauce along with seasonings such as salt and pepper. You can also add a touch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Fresh basil can enhance the flavor further. Gather these ingredients for a hearty meal that the whole family will love.
How long does it take to cook Spaghetti with Meatballs?
Cooking spaghetti with meatballs typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes. The meatballs need around 20 minutes to cook thoroughly in the oven or on the stovetop. Meanwhile, boiling the spaghetti takes about 10 to 12 minutes. Once both components are ready, combine them with your favorite tomato sauce. Cooking times may vary slightly based on your equipment and preferences, so keep an eye on everything to ensure perfectly cooked ingredients. For more inspiration, check out this helpful cooking tips recipe.
Can I freeze Spaghetti with Meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze spaghetti with meatballs for future meals. To do this effectively, cook your dish as usual and allow it to cool completely. Next, place the spaghetti and meatballs in an airtight container or freezer bag. Be sure to label it with the date for reference. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. This makes it a convenient option for busy nights.
What variations can I try for Spaghetti with Meatballs?
There are many fun variations you can explore when making spaghetti with meatballs. For a healthier twist, try using lean turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also make vegetarian meatballs using lentils or chickpeas. Adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini into your sauce enhances nutrition without sacrificing flavor. Experimenting with different sauces—like marinara or pesto—can also provide unique tastes that elevate your classic dish.
Conclusion for Spaghetti with Meatballs :
In summary, spaghetti with meatballs is a comforting classic that appeals to all ages. With simple ingredients like pasta, ground meat, and tomato sauce, you can create a satisfying meal in under an hour. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors by trying different meats or sauces for variety. Whether serving it for family dinners or special occasions, this dish remains a favorite for good reason: it’s deliciously hearty and easy to prepare! Enjoy making this beloved recipe at home today! For more inspiration, check out this delicious main dishes recipe.
Spaghetti with Meatballs
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Spaghetti with Meatballs is a timeless comfort food that warms the heart and pleases the palate. This classic dish features tender spaghetti paired with juicy, herbed meatballs enveloped in a rich tomato sauce infused with garlic and fresh basil. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe is simple yet delicious, ensuring everyone will be coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients on the counter.
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and egg until just combined; form into golf ball-sized meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; brown meatballs on all sides (5-7 minutes). Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, add crushed tomatoes and seasonings; simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Return meatballs to the sauce; simmer together for another 15 minutes.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente; drain well.
- Serve meatballs and sauce over spaghetti; garnish with fresh basil and additional Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (350g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
