Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs (Classic Comfort Dinner)

Spaghetti and meatballs is the kind of classic comfort food that never goes out of style. Tender spaghetti twirled in rich tomato sauce with juicy homemade meatballs creates a dinner that’s hearty, flavorful, and guaranteed to please the whole family. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights yet special enough for Sunday suppers.

I love sharing timeless recipes that bring people together, and this one always delivers. If you enjoy cozy family dinners like my meatloaf with mushroom gravy, this Italian-American favorite will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. It’s warm, satisfying, and just as fun to cook as it is to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti and Meatballs

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Comforting flavors that remind you of family gatherings.
• Customizable with your favorite herbs and spices.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day!
• Great for impressing guests or a cozy Sunday supper.

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Ingredients for Spaghetti and Meatballs

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Whole tomatoes: These are the heart of your sauce. They add rich flavor and texture.
• Olive oil and butter: A combination that brings depth to your sauce. The olive oil adds a fruity note, while butter gives it a creamy finish.
• Onion: Chopped onion adds sweetness and aroma, making your kitchen smell heavenly.
• Garlic: Minced garlic is a must for that classic Italian flavor. It’s aromatic and adds a punch!
• Italian seasoning and dried oregano: These herbs bring a taste of Italy right to your table. They’re essential for that authentic flavor.
• Granulated sugar: Just a pinch balances the acidity of the tomatoes, enhancing the sauce’s overall taste.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional, but they add a delightful kick if you like a bit of heat.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, these enhance all the flavors in your dish.
• Italian seasoned breadcrumbs: These help bind your meatballs and add flavor. You can use plain breadcrumbs if you prefer.
• Whole milk: This keeps your meatballs moist and tender. You can substitute with a non-dairy option if needed.
• Ground beef and ground pork (or Italian sausage): A mix of meats gives your meatballs a juicy texture and rich flavor.
• Egg: This acts as a binder, helping your meatballs hold their shape.
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated adds a nutty flavor to your meatballs and sauce. Always a good idea to sprinkle more on top!
• Fresh parsley: Chopped finely, it adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
• Spaghetti: The classic pasta choice that pairs perfectly with your meatballs and sauce.
• Fresh basil: Optional, but it adds a lovely aroma and flavor when sprinkled on top before serving.

For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing. Happy cooking!

How to Make Spaghetti and Meatballs

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the heart of this Italian-American pasta recipe. Making spaghetti and meatballs is a delightful journey, and I promise it’s easier than you think. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a cozy dinner on the table in no time!

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil and butter, letting them melt together. The aroma will be heavenly!

Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they’re softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This is where the magic begins!

Now, add the whole tomatoes along with their juices. Break them up a bit with a spoon. Stir in the Italian seasoning, dried oregano, sugar, and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Let this simmer for about 30 minutes. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor. Stir occasionally, and enjoy the delightful scent wafting through your kitchen!

Step 2: Make the Meatball Mixture

While the sauce is bubbling away, it’s time to prepare the meatballs. In a large bowl, combine the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs and whole milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes. This helps the breadcrumbs soak up the milk, making your meatballs tender.

After that, add the ground beef, ground pork (or Italian sausage), egg, parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, salt, onion powder, and pepper. Mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want juicy meatballs, not hockey pucks!

Step 3: Form and Cook the Meatballs

Now comes the fun part! With clean hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about the size of a golf ball. Gently drop them into the simmering sauce. They’ll cook beautifully in that rich, juicy meatball sauce recipe.

Let the meatballs cook in the sauce for about 20 minutes. This allows them to absorb all those delicious flavors. You’ll know they’re done when they’re cooked through and tender.

Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti

While the meatballs are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the uncooked spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions. Usually, it takes about 8-10 minutes for that perfect al dente texture.

Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set it aside. You can toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking if you like.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

It’s time to bring it all together! Serve the meatballs and sauce over a generous portion of spaghetti. Don’t forget to sprinkle extra parmesan cheese on top and add some torn fresh basil for that extra touch of flavor.

Gather your family around the table, and enjoy this cozy Sunday supper. Trust me, they’ll be asking for seconds!

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality tomatoes for a richer sauce; San Marzano is a great choice.
• Don’t skip the resting time for the meatball mixture; it makes a big difference in texture.
• For even cooking, try to make your meatballs uniform in size.
• Feel free to add your favorite herbs to the sauce for a personal touch.
• Save leftover sauce for a quick pasta dish later in the week!

Equipment Needed

• Large pot: Essential for making the sauce. A Dutch oven works great too.
• Mixing bowl: For combining the meatball ingredients. Any large bowl will do.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring the sauce and breaking up the tomatoes.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Handy for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Slotted spoon: Ideal for transferring meatballs from the sauce to the plate.

Variations To Try

• Turkey or Chicken Meatballs: Swap out the beef and pork for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Vegetarian Meatballs: Use lentils, chickpeas, or a store-bought meat substitute to create a delicious vegetarian version.
• Spicy Meatballs: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meatball mixture for a fiery kick.
• Herbed Sauce: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary in the sauce for a unique flavor twist.
• Cheesy Meatballs: Incorporate mozzarella cheese into the meatball mixture for a gooey surprise in every bite.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread on the side for a perfect pairing.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
• Wine: A glass of red wine, like Chianti, enhances the Italian flavors beautifully.
• Presentation: Garnish with extra parmesan and fresh basil for a restaurant-style finish.

FAQs about Spaghetti and Meatballs

Conclusion

This easy spaghetti and meatballs recipe proves that simple ingredients can make unforgettable meals. The savory meatballs, rich tomato sauce, and tender pasta create a dish that feels both comforting and celebratory. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight family dinner or a gathering with friends, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

For more comfort food inspiration, try my flavorful velvety pastalaya or the hearty vegan mushroom stew. Both recipes are nourishing, easy to make, and perfect for cozy meals at home.

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