Spaghetti and meatballs is a timeless comfort meal loved by families everywhere. Tender meatballs simmer in a rich tomato sauce, then mingle with perfectly cooked spaghetti for a hearty, flavorful dish. This recipe uses simple ingredients and clear steps, so you can enjoy a classic Italian‑style dinner at home anytime.
Ingredients (Serves 4) 🛒
• 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or half beef, half pork)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil (or a few fresh leaves, chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions 👩🍳
-
Make the Meatballs
In a bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Shape into golf‑ball‑size balls (about 1½ inches each). -
Brown the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Add meatballs and cook, turning gently, until all sides are browned (about 5–6 minutes).
Remove meatballs and set aside. -
Cook the Sauce
In the same pan, add chopped onion and garlic.
Cook until soft (about 3 minutes).
Pour in crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Stir and bring to a gentle simmer. -
Simmer Meatballs in Sauce
Return meatballs to the pan, nestling them into the sauce.
Cover and simmer on low heat for 15–20 minutes, until meatballs are cooked through and sauce thickens. -
Cook the Spaghetti
While the sauce simmers, bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until just tender.
Drain well. -
Combine and Serve
Divide spaghetti among plates.
Spoon meatballs and sauce over the top.
Sprinkle extra Parmesan and parsley if you like.
Enjoy a warm plate of classic spaghetti and meatballs—simple, satisfying, and full of home‑cooked flavor! 🍴✨