Introduction

There’s something magical about the aroma of simmering tomatoes, garlic, and herbs wafting through your kitchen, isn’t there? It’s a time machine whisking you back to childhood, where family dinners filled with laughter and mouthwatering dishes brought everyone together. Today, I’m sharing my cherished recipe for The BEST Spaghetti and Meatballs — a comforting homemade experience that transforms any evening into a memorable family gathering. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an embrace on a plate, served with love and the promise of warmth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

So, why is The BEST Spaghetti and Meatballs worth trying? Here’s why this dish steals the spotlight on my dining table:

A Quick Family Meal: With a total prep and cook time of under an hour, this dish can make its way onto your weeknight menu without a hitch.
Brings Families Together: There’s something about twirling spaghetti and sharing stories that makes this recipe a staple for family reunions and cozy gatherings.
Indulgent Yet Light: You can savor every bite without the guilt. This recipe incorporates healthy ingredients that keep it hearty yet wholesome.
Festive and Special: Perfect for holidays or casual get-togethers, this dish makes any occasion feel like a celebration.

Ingredients with Notes

To make your very own The BEST Spaghetti and Meatballs, you’ll need:

1 pound ground beef (80/20 works best for moisture)
1/2 pound ground pork (adds flavor and tenderness)
1 cup breadcrumbs (use panko for a lighter texture)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated elevates the flavor)
2 large eggs (bind the meat together)
4 cloves garlic, minced (for depth; fresh is best)
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (a blend of basil, oregano, and thyme)
Salt and pepper to taste (always season to your liking)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for a burst of flavor; you can always swap in basil)
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes (look for San Marzano for superior taste)
1 onion, finely chopped (for sweetness)
2 tablespoons olive oil (the backbone of your sauce)
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust based on how spicy you like it)
Spaghetti, for serving (gluten-free options work beautifully)

Prep and Cook Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

In under an hour, you’ll transform fresh ingredients into a heartwarming feast that feels like it took all day to prepare.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your meatballs roast perfectly while keeping their juicy interiors.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until just combined—overmixing will make your meatballs tough.
Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (this makes for easy cleanup!). You should have about 20 meatballs.
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until they’re browned and cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and salt. Let this simmer gently, allowing the flavors to meld (your kitchen will smell divine).
Once the meatballs are done, carefully transfer them into your tomato sauce, gently coating them. Let them simmer together for an additional 10 minutes.
Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Serve the meatballs and sauce over the spaghetti, garnished with more Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.
Twirl your fork, take a bite, and let the flavors dance on your palate.

Tips and Variations

Healthier Swaps: Use turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork for a lighter option.
Seasonal Twist: Adding seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach to the sauce increases nutritional value while enhancing flavor.
Flavor Upgrades: Try adding a splash of red wine to the sauce for deeper complexity.

Serving Ideas

This dish is perfect for any occasion. Pair it with a fresh garden salad and crusty garlic bread for a cozy weeknight dinner. For a festive gathering, serve with a nice Chianti and a rich, creamy Tiramisu for dessert. Imagine sharing this meal around a table filled with laughter and the clinking of forks.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers? You’ll want to save every last bite! Store the spaghetti and meatballs separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to the sauce to keep it moist.

Chef’s Pro Tips

Rest the Meatballs: Let them rest for a few minutes after baking for juicier texture.
Use Fresh Herbs: Add herbs at the end of cooking for a brighter flavor profile.
Taste as You Go: Always taste your sauce and season it to your liking — every batch is unique!

FAQs

Q: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the meatballs and tomato sauce in advance and store separately. Reheating is a breeze!

Q: What if I have dietary restrictions?
A: Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free options or use a vegetarian meat substitute for a plant-based version.

Conclusion

I hope you embark on this delicious journey to create The BEST Spaghetti and Meatballs in your own kitchen. Remember, cooking is about sharing love and moments with those you hold dear. So gather your family, set the table, and let the flavors bring warmth to your hearts. Don’t forget to share your experience and this recipe with friends; after all, good food deserves to be shared!

Contents

1 The BEST Spaghetti and Meatballs

The BEST Spaghetti and Meatballs

A comforting homemade experience that transforms any evening into a memorable family gathering.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients

Meatballs Ingredients

1 pound ground beef (80/20 works best for moisture)
1/2 pound ground pork (adds flavor and tenderness)
1 cup breadcrumbs (use panko for a lighter texture)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated elevates the flavor)
2 large eggs (bind the meat together)
4 cloves garlic, minced (for depth; fresh is best)
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (a blend of basil, oregano, and thyme)
Salt and pepper to taste (always season to your liking)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for a burst of flavor; you can always swap in basil)

Sauce Ingredients

1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes (look for San Marzano for superior taste)
1 medium onion, finely chopped (for sweetness)
2 tablespoons olive oil (the backbone of your sauce)
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust based on how spicy you like it)

Pasta

Spaghetti, for serving (gluten-free options work beautifully)

Instructions

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your meatballs roast perfectly while keeping their juicy interiors.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until just combined—overmixing will make your meatballs tough.
Shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (this makes for easy cleanup!). You should have about 20 meatballs.

Cooking

Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until they’re browned and cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and salt. Let this simmer gently, allowing the flavors to meld (your kitchen will smell divine).
Once the meatballs are done, carefully transfer them into your tomato sauce, gently coating them. Let them simmer together for an additional 10 minutes.
Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Serve the meatballs and sauce over the spaghetti, garnished with more Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.
Twirl your fork, take a bite, and let the flavors dance on your palate.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the fridge or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to the sauce to keep it moist.

Keyword Comfort Food, Family Dinner, Meatballs, Pasta Recipe, Spaghetti

Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.

📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest