Description
This Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe combines tender homemade meatballs simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce, served over perfectly cooked spaghetti. A comforting classic Italian-inspired dish that’s simple to prepare and perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
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
For the Sauce and Pasta:
- 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)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Brown the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides, ensuring a nice crust forms. Once browned, remove the meatballs and set them aside on a plate.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same pan, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with dried basil, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir the mixture well and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer Meatballs in Sauce: Return the browned meatballs to the pan with the tomato sauce. Let them simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatballs to cook through.
- Cook Spaghetti: While the meatballs are simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Serve: Plate the cooked spaghetti and top it with the simmered meatballs and sauce. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your hearty, delicious meal!
Notes
- For extra flavor, use fresh herbs instead of dried basil if available.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when browning meatballs to ensure even cooking.
- Leftover meatballs and sauce can be refrigerated and stored for up to 3 days.
