Traditional Spaghetti and Meatballs

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 55 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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There's something undeniably comforting about a classic plate of spaghetti and meatballs. This timeless recipe brings together juicy meatballs and a rich tomato sauce, perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish for guests.

Ingredients for Traditional Spaghetti and Meatballs

Ground beef and ground pork together create a richer, more succulent meatball than using beef alone. The breadcrumbs act as a binder, keeping the meatballs tender. A little bit of Parmesan cheese adds a savory kick, while parsley brings freshness. Garlic is a must for fragrant, flavorful meatballs, and a single egg helps hold everything together. Season with salt and black pepper for balance.

Olive oil is used to sear the meatballs, adding flavor and a beautiful crust. A chopped onion adds sweetness and depth to the sauce. The crushed tomatoes form the base of the sauce, with oregano and red pepper flakes enhancing its flavor. Cook spaghetti to al dente for the perfect accompaniment, and finish with more Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for a touch of color and flavor.

Tips & Tricks

  • Wet your hands slightly before rolling the meatballs to prevent sticking.
  • For a deeper flavor, let the sauce simmer longer if you have the time.
  • Don't skip the browning step; it adds essential flavor to the meatballs.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in olive oil and lemon juice. A slice of crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce. A light red wine, like a Chianti, would complement the meal wonderfully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead?
Yes, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different. Consider adding a bit more seasoning to compensate.
How can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Traditional Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe Walkthrough

Start by mixing the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Use your hands for the best results—it's the perfect tool for ensuring everything is well combined. Once mixed, shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. You should end up with a satisfying number of these little flavor bombs.

Heat up some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the meatballs. Brown them on all sides, taking care not to overcrowd the pan—this ensures they get a nice crust rather than steaming. Once browned, remove the meatballs and set them aside. In the same skillet, toss in the onion. Cook it until it's translucent and aromatic, then add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Let this mixture come to a gentle simmer.

Return the meatballs to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Cover and let them gently simmer for about 30 minutes. This part is where the magic happens—those flavors meld together into something truly wonderful. While the meatballs are simmering, cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente, as it will hold up better to the sauce.

To serve, plate the spaghetti, ladle over the sauce and meatballs, and garnish with fresh Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Enjoy watching everyone dig in!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Hearty and satisfying, perfect for any season.
  • Combines beef and pork for more flavorful meatballs.
  • Simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry.
  • Quick enough for a weeknight, special enough for a weekend.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1/2 lb ground pork
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped parsley
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
28 oz can crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 lb spaghetti
Salt, to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper.
2. Shape mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Remove meatballs and set aside. In the same skillet, add onion and cook until translucent.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.
6. Return meatballs to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes.
7. Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
8. Serve meatballs and sauce over spaghetti, garnished with Parmesan cheese and basil leaves.

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