Spaghetti Meatballs is a timeless dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. This Homemade Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe is not just about the rich, savory flavors—it’s about the love that goes into every meatball and the satisfaction of a comforting meal. Picture tender meatballs simmered in a delicious marinara sauce, served over a generous bed of spaghetti. This dish is perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or meal prep, ensuring you always have a hearty meal at your fingertips.

Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti Meatballs

This spaghetti meatballs dish is a must-try for several reasons. First, it brings together the delightful combination of flavors that make Italian cuisine so beloved. Second, it’s an easy spaghetti meatballs recipe, perfect for beginners. Third, you can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Additionally, it’s a great way to bond with family while cooking. Kids love it, making it an ideal spaghetti and meatball dinner. Finally, this meal is filling and nutritious, featuring protein-packed meatballs and wholesome pasta, making it a balanced choice for dinner.

Ingredients for Spaghetti Meatballs

Gather these items:

1 lb ground beef
0.5 lb ground pork
0.5 cup breadcrumbs
0.25 cup whole milk
0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1 tsp dried oregano
0.5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1 tsp salt
0.5 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
2 tbsp olive oil (for sauce)
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
28 oz can crushed tomatoes
14 oz can diced tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp sugar
1 tsp salt
0.5 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried basil
0.5 tsp dried oregano
0.25 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
12 oz spaghetti
Salt (for pasta water)
Freshly grated Parmesan
Chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Spaghetti Meatballs Step-by-Step

Step 1: Soak the breadcrumbs in milk for 5 minutes in a small bowl until softened.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine soaked breadcrumbs, beef, pork, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, red pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix gently.
Step 3: Form into 1.5-inch balls. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown meatballs on all sides, about 5–7 minutes. Set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, add more olive oil and sauté onion for 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in tomato paste.
Step 5: Add crushed and diced tomatoes, sugar, salt, pepper, dried basil, and oregano. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 6: Return meatballs to sauce, partially cover, and simmer on low for 25–30 minutes until meatballs are cooked through.
Step 7: Meanwhile, boil salted water and cook spaghetti until al dente. Reserve 0.5 cup pasta water, then drain.
Step 8: Toss pasta with sauce and meatballs. Use pasta water to adjust consistency if needed.
Step 9: Garnish with Parmesan and parsley. Serve hot.

Pro Tips for the Best Spaghetti Meatballs

Keep these in mind:

This dish is perfect for weeknight meals and family dinners.
Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes.
For a heartier meal, serve with garlic bread or a side salad.
Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Spaghetti Meatballs

There are countless ways to enjoy this meatball spaghetti dish. For a classic experience, serve your spaghetti meatballs in marinara sauce topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Another great option is to pair the dish with garlic bread for a complete Italian meal. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad for added nutrition.

Spaghetti Meatballs: 5 Easy Steps to Comforting Perfection - Spaghetti Meatballs - additional detail

How to Store and Reheat Spaghetti Meatballs

To store your leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting meal again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through. This is a fantastic recipe for meal prep, allowing you to have delicious dinners ready in no time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spaghetti Meatballs

What’s the secret to perfect Spaghetti Meatballs?

The secret lies in the quality of the meat and the balance of spices. Using a mix of beef and pork yields juicy meatballs, while fresh herbs enhance the flavor. A good marinara sauce is key to a satisfying spaghetti and meatball dinner source.

Can I make Spaghetti Meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just reheat and serve over freshly cooked spaghetti for a quick meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Spaghetti Meatballs?

To avoid dry meatballs, don’t overmix the meat mixture and ensure you don’t overcook them. Also, make sure your sauce is simmering gently before adding the meatballs, allowing them to absorb the flavors.

Variations of Spaghetti Meatballs You Can Try

If you’re looking to mix things up, try these variations: use turkey or chicken for a leaner option, add chopped vegetables to the meat mixture, or make a spicy version with additional crushed red pepper. You can also create a vegetarian-friendly option using lentils or plant-based meat substitutes. Enjoy the flexibility of this Italian meatball spaghetti dish!

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes and creamy Italian sausage dishes.