Description
This Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe is a classic Italian-American dish featuring tender homemade meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce, served over perfectly cooked spaghetti. The dish combines savory ground beef meatballs with a flavorful garlic and onion tomato sauce, making it a comforting and hearty meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta:
- 12 oz spaghetti
Instructions
- Prepare the meatballs: In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set aside.
- Brown the meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook them, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the meatballs from the pan and set them aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: In the same pan, add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute to release its fragrance, making sure not to burn it.
- Add the tomato sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then stir in dried basil, salt, black pepper, and the optional red pepper flakes. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer meatballs in sauce: Return the browned meatballs to the sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer uncovered on low heat for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This ensures the meatballs cook through and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
- Cook the spaghetti: While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Serve: Plate the cooked spaghetti and spoon the meatballs and sauce over the top. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this hearty, comforting meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a splash of red wine to the sauce while simmering.
- If you prefer a milder sauce, omit the red pepper flakes.
- Use fresh parsley for a more vibrant taste and garnish.
- Make sure not to overmix the meatball ingredients to keep them tender.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
