There’s something irresistibly comforting about a plate of Homemade Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs. This dish embodies the warmth and simplicity of Italian-American cooking, making it a beloved favorite in many households. Picture juicy meatballs, enriched with a blend of ground beef and pork, simmering in a rich, savory marinara sauce, and served over perfectly cooked spaghetti. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, and one that many of us cherish from family dinners or cozy nights in.

This Homemade Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to impress family or friends without a fuss. It boasts a harmonious blend of flavors, with a hint of garlic, a sprinkle of herbs, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes. As an easy dinner idea, it comes together in about an hour, making it perfect for weeknights or meal prep. Plus, it yields generous portions, ensuring that everyone leaves the table satisfied. Whether you’re craving comfort after a long day or seeking a crowd-pleaser for a gathering, this recipe is your go-to.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can create a homemade dish that tastes like it came from your favorite Italian restaurant.
Rich Flavors: The combination of seasoned meatballs and a savory marinara sauce creates a deeply satisfying flavor profile.
Family-Friendly: This dish is loved by both kids and adults, making it a staple for family dinners.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for quick meals throughout the week.
Customizable: You can easily adjust ingredients to cater to dietary preferences or simply add your favorite twists.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s crucial to set up your kitchen effectively. Start by ensuring you have all your ingredients prepped and measured—this will streamline your cooking experience. Gather the following tools: a large mixing bowl, measuring cups, a skillet for browning the meatballs, and a pot for boiling the spaghetti. A wooden spoon will come in handy for mixing and stirring.

Additionally, you might want a spatula or tongs for flipping the meatballs and a fine-mesh strainer for draining the pasta. Having everything ready will make the process feel seamless and enjoyable. Remember to keep your workspace clean and organized to make cooking a delightful experience!

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Step 1: Soak the Breadcrumbs

Start by soaking the breadcrumbs in milk. This crucial step makes all the difference, ensuring that the breadcrumbs absorb the moisture and create a tender meatball. Allow them to soak for about 5 minutes in a small bowl until they become soft and mushy.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the soaked breadcrumbs with the ground beef and pork, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix everything gently until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Take portions of the meat mixture and shape them into 1.5-inch balls. You should aim for a consistent size for even cooking. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the meatballs, cooking them for about 5–7 minutes, turning them to brown all sides. Once browned, transfer them to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet used for the meatballs, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed and toss in the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic for an extra kick and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste to deepen the sauce’s flavor.

Step 5: Make the Marinara Sauce

Next, incorporate the crushed and diced tomatoes, sugar, salt, pepper, dried basil, and oregano into the skillet. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors together.

Step 6: Combine Meatballs and Sauce

Return the browned meatballs to the sauce, partially cover the skillet, and let them simmer on low heat for about 25–30 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through. This slow simmer allows the meatballs to soak up the sauce’s flavors, producing a rich, savory taste.

Step 7: Cook the Spaghetti

While the meatballs and sauce are finishing up, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. It’s important to reserve about 0.5 cup of the pasta water before draining the spaghetti. This starchy water can help to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

Step 8: Combine Everything

Toss the drained spaghetti with the meatball marinara sauce in the skillet. If the sauce appears too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.

Step 9: Serve and Garnish

To serve, dish out the spaghetti with meatballs and garnish generously with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley for added color and flavor. Enjoy your meal hot!

Variations

Protein: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
Vegetables: Add grated zucchini or finely chopped spinach to the meat mixture for added nutrition without compromising flavor.
Spices: Experiment with different spices like Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, or even a pinch of cinnamon for a unique twist.

Cooking Notes

For an extra layer of flavor, let the sauce simmer longer with the meatballs; the flavors will deepen beautifully.
Don’t skip browning the meatballs; this step adds caramelization and depth to their taste.
Soaking the breadcrumbs is key for keeping the meatballs juicy and tender, so make sure they are well-soaked before mixing.
Be careful not to overwork the meat mixture; this can lead to dense meatballs.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious marinara sauce.
Add a fresh green salad dressed lightly with olive oil and vinegar for contrast and freshness.

Tips

Feel free to double the recipe and freeze half for later; spaghetti and meatballs freeze well.
To make the sauce even richer, consider adding a splash of red wine while sautéing the onions.
For an authentic Italian experience, pair with a glass of Chianti or your favorite red wine.
Top with fresh basil leaves right before serving for a flavor boost and appealing presentation.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 65 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 600 per serving
Protein: 35g
Sodium: 850mg

FAQs

Can I use turkey instead of beef for the meatballs?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative that offers a leaner option while still being flavorful.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the meatballs in advance and freeze them before cooking. Just thaw and cook as instructed when you’re ready to eat.

What pasta is best for spaghetti and meatballs?

Traditional spaghetti is the classic choice, but you can also use other shapes like fettuccine or penne if you prefer.

Conclusion

Homemade Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace on a plate. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this dish captivates everyone who tries it. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight family dinner or on special occasions, it promises satisfaction and warmth. We hope this recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen, bringing you joy and delicious moments with family and friends. Don’t forget to share your variations or experiences in the comments below! Happy cooking!