Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs

Looking for a comforting dish that’s simple yet delicious? Look no further than this Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe! Perfect for busy weeknights, this classic Italian-American dish is a family favorite. With its savory meatballs and hearty tomato sauce, it’s a dish that anyone can make, no matter your cooking experience.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 600
Protein: 30 grams
Carbohydrates: 70 grams
Fat: 20 grams
Fiber: 5 grams
Sugar: 6 grams
Sodium: 600 mg

Why Make Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

This Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe is not just a meal, it’s a delightful experience. The combination of seasoned beef and fresh ingredients makes it not only tasty but also a hearty option for those looking for comfort food. It’s highly customizable; you can tweak the meat and add your favorite veggies or spices. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe fits the bill perfectly!

How to Make Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe Step by Step

Ingredients

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

Directions

1. In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Shape into 1-inch meatballs.
2. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, sauté onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir and bring to a simmer.
5. Return meatballs to the sauce. Simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
7. Serve meatballs and sauce over spaghetti, topped with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

How to Serve Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

Pair your Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs with a fresh side salad and some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also sprinkle extra grated Parmesan on top or serve it with a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.

How to Store Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze the meatballs and sauce separately for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply thaw and reheat before serving.

Expert Tips for Cooking Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

• Use a mix of ground beef and pork for extra flavor in the meatballs.
• Don’t skip browning the meatballs; this enhances their taste.
• Feel free to add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the sauce for more nutrition.

Delicious Variations of Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

• For a spicy kick, add extra red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into your meatball mixture.
• Swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute meatballs with lentil or chickpea balls.

Conclusion

Try this Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe today and discover the comforting flavors and satisfying textures that make it a beloved classic. Its simplicity and taste make it a dish you’ll want to repeat time and time again!

Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs

This classic Italian-American dish features savory meatballs and hearty tomato sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American, Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Pasta

• 12 oz spaghetti

For the Sauce

• 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
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

Preparation

• In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Shape into 1-inch meatballs.
• In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides. Remove and set aside.
• In the same pan, sauté onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Cooking

• Add crushed tomatoes, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir and bring to a simmer.
• Return meatballs to the sauce. Simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
• Serve meatballs and sauce over spaghetti, topped with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze the meatballs and sauce separately for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy again, simply thaw and reheat before serving. Expert Tips: Use a mix of ground beef and pork for extra flavor in the meatballs. Don't skip browning the meatballs; this enhances their taste. Feel free to add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the sauce for more nutrition.

Keyword Comfort Food, Easy Recipe, Family Favorite, Meatballs, Spaghetti