Spaghetti and meatballs is a favorite dish in many homes. It’s a mix of tender meatballs and rich marinara sauce over spaghetti. It’s perfect for family dinners or when you have guests over.

Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- Ground beef (or beef/pork blend): 1 lb (450 g)
- Breadcrumbs: 1/4 cup (30 g)
- Egg: 1 large
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup, grated
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, finely chopped
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Milk: 2 tbsp (optional for extra tenderness)
For the Marinara Sauce
- Tomato puree: 1 (28 oz) can
- Diced tomatoes: 1 (14.5 oz) can
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Onion: 1 small, finely diced
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Fresh basil: 1/2 cup, chopped
- Oregano: 1 tsp
- Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/4 tsp (optional)
- Salt and pepper: To taste
- Red wine (optional): 2 tbsp
For the Spaghetti
- Spaghetti: 1 lb (450 g)
- Salt: For boiling water
- Grated Parmesan cheese: For garnish
- Fresh parsley or basil: For garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper. Add milk if desired for extra tenderness. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
- Shape Meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1-2 inch balls, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Bake Meatballs: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 2: Make the Marinara Sauce
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in tomato puree and diced tomatoes. Mix well.
- Season the Sauce: Add basil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir in red wine if desired for added depth.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti
- Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Combine: Toss the cooked spaghetti with a portion of the marinara sauce to coat.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Plate the Pasta: Divide the sauced spaghetti onto serving plates or a large serving dish.
- Add Meatballs: Arrange the baked meatballs on top of the spaghetti.
- Top with Sauce: Ladle the remaining marinara sauce over the meatballs and spaghetti.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley or basil.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread to soak up the sauce.
- Pair with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Enjoy with a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Merlot.
Key Takeaways
- Spaghetti and meatballs is a classic Italian-American dish
- The recipe features tender, flavorful meatballs in a rich marinara sauce
- It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for family dinners or entertaining
- The combination of homemade meatballs and sauce is sure to please
- This recipe is a timeless favorite that can be customized to your liking
Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe: A Timeless Favorite
The spaghetti and meatballs recipe is a true classic in Italian-American cuisine. It’s a family favorite for generations. It delights with savory meatballs, tangy marinara sauce, and tender spaghetti.
This classic Italian-American dish is a staple in the U.S. It’s loved for its perfect flavors and textures. The meatballs are tender, and the marinara sauce is rich and tangy.
When tossed with spaghetti, it warms the soul. It brings people together at the table.
Whether for a big family dinner or a cozy Italian-American meal, it impresses. Its flavors are simple yet delicious. It’s also versatile, allowing for many variations.
The spaghetti and meatballs recipe’s popularity shows its lasting appeal. It’s a key part of Italian-American culinary traditions. It brings people together, creating memories that last forever.
Ingredients for Homemade Meatballs
Great homemade meatballs start with good ingredients. Use ground beef or mix ground meats like beef and pork. This makes the meatballs taste rich.
Add breadcrumbs and egg to help them stick together. This makes them soft and juicy.
Ground Beef or Ground Meat Blend
You can choose ground beef or mix ground meats. Mixing beef and pork adds more flavor. Try different mixes to find your favorite.
Breadcrumbs and Egg for Binding
Breadcrumbs and egg are key for meatballs. They help the meatballs stick together. Breadcrumbs soak up moisture, making them tender. The egg holds everything in place while cooking.

Start with 1/4 cup breadcrumbs and 1 egg for every pound of meat. You can change this to suit your taste. Try different seasonings to make your meatballs special.
Preparing the Classic Marinara Sauce
The homemade marinara sauce is perfect with the juicy meatballs. We start with tomato puree and diced tomatoes. Then, we add fresh herbs and aromatic ingredients for depth.
Tomato Puree and Diced Tomatoes
Our sauce starts with tomato puree and diced tomatoes. The puree makes it smooth, and the diced tomatoes add a fresh taste. Together, they make a great Italian sauce.
Fresh Herbs and Aromatics
We add fresh herbs and aromatic ingredients to the sauce. Basil, oregano, and parsley, along with garlic and onions, make it flavorful. A bit of red wine or balsamic vinegar also helps.
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Tomato puree | 1 (28 oz) can |
Diced tomatoes | 1 (14.5 oz) can |
Fresh basil | 1/2 cup, chopped |
Fresh oregano | 2 tablespoons, chopped |
Fresh parsley | 1/4 cup, chopped |
Garlic | 3 cloves, minced |
Onion | 1 small, diced |
Red wine or balsamic vinegar | 2 tablespoons |
With these ingredients, we’re making a homemade marinara sauce. It will make your spaghetti and meatballs dish amazing.
Cooking the Perfect Spaghetti
No spaghetti and meatballs dish is complete without perfectly cooked spaghetti. To get the best al dente pasta, follow the package instructions carefully. Seasoning the water with salt makes the noodles taste better.
After cooking the spaghetti just right, mix it with homemade marinara sauce. This makes sure the noodles are well coated. They’re ready for the final dish.
To cook perfect spaghetti, remember these tips:
- Use a big pot with lots of water. This lets the noodles cook well.
- Put a lot of salt in the water. It seasons the pasta inside.
- Set a timer and follow the package for the right al dente texture.
- Drain the spaghetti and save some cooking water. Mix it with the sauce.
By following these steps, you’ll make a spaghetti and meatballs dish with great noodles. Your family and friends will love it.

“The secret to perfectly cooked spaghetti is in the details. It’s all about that al dente bite.”
Baking the Meatballs to Perfection
To make tender and juicy meatballs, focus on the baking. Roll the mix into the same size balls. Then, put them on a baking sheet.
This makes the outside crispy and the inside soft and tasty.
Tips for Tender and Juicy Meatballs
- Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This makes the baked meatballs crusty.
- Make the meatballs the same size, about 1-2 inches. This helps them cook evenly.
- Put the meatballs on a baking sheet covered with parchment paper. Leave some space for even browning.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes. They’re done when they’re hot inside and the outside is brown.
Follow these tips to make delicious, tender, and juicy meatballs. They’ll make your spaghetti and meatballs dish amazing.
“The secret to perfectly tender and juicy meatballs is all in the baking technique. Get the temperature just right, and you’ll be rewarded with a mouthwatering meal.”
Assembling the Spaghetti and Meatballs Dish
The final step is to put it all together. Start by placing a big portion of spaghetti on a plate. Then, add several meatballs on top. Finally, pour the hot marinara sauce over everything.
For a nice touch, sprinkle some parsley or basil leaves on top. This makes the dish look and taste great.
Putting the spaghetti, meatballs, and sauce together is key. It makes the dish look good and taste even better. The spaghetti, meatballs, and sauce all work together perfectly.
- Start with a bed of hot, freshly cooked spaghetti, twirling it onto a plate or in a wide bowl.
- Arrange several meatballs on top of the spaghetti, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Ladle the hot marinara sauce over the meatballs and spaghetti, allowing it to cascade down the sides.
- Garnish the dish with a sprinkling of freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves, adding a pop of color and fresh aroma.
Step | Action |
---|---|
1 | Place spaghetti on a plate or in a bowl |
2 | Top with meatballs |
3 | Ladle marinara sauce over the top |
4 | Garnish with fresh herbs |
By following these simple steps, you can assemble a stunning spaghetti and meatballs dish. It will impress everyone. The mix of flavors and textures makes it a true delight.
Variations and Customizations
The classic spaghetti and meatballs dish is loved by many. But, you can make it your own with different tastes and diets. Want to try vegetarian or vegan options? Or maybe you just want to try new flavors? There are so many ways to enjoy it.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Plant-based lovers can make meatballs with lentils, mushrooms, or soy. These vegetarian spaghetti and meatballs taste great. Serve them with marinara sauce and whole-grain pasta for a healthy meal.
For vegan spaghetti and meatballs, use tofu, tempeh, or ground nuts. Pair these with vegan pasta and sauce for a tasty, kind dish.
Spaghetti and meatballs can be made in many ways. Try different pasta, sauces, and toppings. It’s fun to make it your own. Get creative and enjoy your meal!
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Spaghetti and meatballs can be served in many ways. This dish goes well with different sides and toppings. It makes for a complete and tasty meal.
Try serving it with a fresh green salad. The salad’s crispness and tangy dressing balance the dish’s richness. It’s a great way to enjoy the meal.
Roasting veggies like zucchini or bell peppers is another good choice. They add a nice texture and flavor to the dish. It’s a hearty side that pairs well.
Don’t forget garlic bread. It’s a must-have with spaghetti and meatballs. The warm bread soaks up the sauce beautifully.
For drinks, a medium-bodied red wine is perfect. Chianti or Merlot works well. It complements the meatballs and sauce, making the meal even better.
Spaghetti and meatballs can be served with many things. Try a salad, roasted veggies, or garlic bread. Each option makes the dish special. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic Italian meal.
Spaghetti and Meatballs: A Family Favorite
Spaghetti and meatballs is a family favorite for many. It’s a classic comfort food. It mixes homemade meatballs and marinara sauce with spaghetti. It’s perfect for any meal, bringing happiness to everyone.
This dish is simple yet versatile. The meatballs and marinara sauce go great with spaghetti. It makes a meal that feels like home. It reminds us of happy times with family.
Spaghetti and meatballs is more than food. It’s a tradition that brings people together. It creates memories and strengthens bonds. Whether it’s with family or alone, it’s always special.