There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of spaghetti and meatballs wafting through the house. For many, it’s a dish tied to childhood memories, Sunday dinners, or special occasions. When I first tried this meatball spaghetti recipe, it instantly became a hit with my family. The combination of succulent meatballs and perfectly cooked spaghetti, all enveloped in a rich, flavorful tomato sauce, is nothing short of a culinary masterpiece. Whether you opt for beef or turkey, the results are equally delightful, offering a hearty meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

To create this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• For the Meatballs:
• 1 pound of ground beef or turkey
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• For the Sauce:
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Spaghetti:
• 1 pound spaghetti
• Salt for boiling water

Instructions

Preparing this dish requires a bit of patience and love, but the end result is well worth the effort. Follow these step-by-step instructions to make a perfect meatball spaghetti:

1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef or turkey, Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until well combined. Shape the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
2. Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook them until browned on all sides, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Transfer the cooked meatballs to a plate and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add more olive oil if necessary and sauté the onion until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then stir in the basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes.
4. Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Add the browned meatballs to the simmering sauce. Cover and let them cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Cook the Spaghetti: While the meatballs are simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the spaghetti and set aside.
6. Assemble the Dish: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce and meatballs. Toss everything gently to combine, ensuring the spaghetti is well coated with sauce.
7. Serve: Transfer the spaghetti and meatballs to serving plates. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: This recipe serves approximately 4 people.

Calories per serving: Each serving contains approximately 600-700 calories, depending on the choice of meat and the amount of cheese used.

Preparation Time

From start to finish, this meatball spaghetti recipe takes about 1 hour to prepare and cook. This includes time for preparing the ingredients, cooking the meatballs, simmering the sauce, and boiling the spaghetti. While it may seem like a lengthy process, each step is straightforward and the flavors are worth every minute spent in the kitchen.

How to Serve

Serving meatball spaghetti can be as simple or as elaborate as you desire. Here are some ideas to elevate the dining experience:

• Serve with a side of garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Pair with a fresh green salad, dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Offer a selection of cheeses, such as grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano, for sprinkling on top.
• Accompany with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, to complement the rich flavors of the dish.
• For a family-style dinner, serve the spaghetti in a large platter and let everyone help themselves.

Additional Tips

To make the most out of this recipe, consider these handy tips:

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh herbs and high-quality Parmesan cheese to enhance the flavor of the dish.
2. Make Ahead: Prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. This can save time on busy weeknights.
3. Freeze for Later: This dish freezes well. Simply store the cooked meatballs and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
4. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before adding the meatballs and adjust the seasoning as needed. A pinch of sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes if necessary.
5. Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or fresh basil leaves for a burst of freshness.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use other types of pasta?

A1: Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even linguine.

Q2: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A2: To make the dish gluten-free, use gluten-free bread crumbs for the meatballs and substitute regular spaghetti with a gluten-free variety.

Q3: Can I prepare this recipe with chicken instead of beef or turkey?

A3: Yes, ground chicken can be a great alternative. Just ensure it’s cooked thoroughly and seasoned well for best results.

Q4: What can I do with leftover meatball spaghetti?

A4: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.

Q5: How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

A5: Ensure the mixture is well combined, and don’t skip the egg and bread crumbs as they act as binders. Also, handle the meatballs gently when cooking to maintain their shape.