italian spaghetti meatballs recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best italian spaghetti meatballs recipe

I’ve been making this Italian spaghetti meatballs recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The dish is a classic, and it’s easy to see why – the combination of ground beef and pork, mixed with breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese, and then formed into meatballs that are baked to perfection, is a flavor sensation that never gets old.

The sauce, made with canned tomatoes and herbs, adds a depth of flavor that complements the meatballs perfectly. And the best part?

It’s a one-pot wonder, so cleanup is a breeze. I like to serve it with a side of garlic bread or pasta salad for a complete meal.

My kids love helping me make the meatballs, and it’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen. The recipe makes about 20-25 meatballs, which is plenty for our family of four.

We often have leftovers, which I freeze for later use. The dish has become a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will be in yours too once you try it!

The aroma of the meatballs baking in the oven is incredible, and the whole house smells like an Italian restaurant.

Italian Spaghetti and Meatballs

4.7 from 1506 votes

A classic Italian dish featuring tender meatballs in a rich tomato sauce served over al dente spaghetti. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners and gatherings.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 20 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 750 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, finely chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp sugar (optional)

For the Spaghetti

12 oz spaghetti
salt for pasta water

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 400°F.
2In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
3Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
4The mixture should hold together when squeezed.
5Shape the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs, rolling them gently between your hands.
6Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are not touching.
7Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 160°F.
8While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce.
9In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
10Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
11Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and sugar (if using).
12Stir well to combine.
13Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
14The sauce should thicken slightly and the flavors should meld together.
15Once the meatballs are done, gently place them into the simmering sauce, ensuring they are fully submerged.
16Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the meatballs to absorb the sauce flavors.
17Stir gently to prevent the meatballs from breaking apart.
18While the meatballs are simmering in the sauce, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente.
19Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
20Divide the cooked spaghetti among plates, top with meatballs and sauce.
21Serve immediately, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
22The sauce should coat the spaghetti evenly and the meatballs should be tender and juicy.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Large skillet
Wooden spoon
Pot for boiling pasta

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 750 kcal🧈Total Fat: 30g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 100mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 80g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 10g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

Tips: For a healthier option, you can use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. To make the dish gluten-free, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.

Watch Video Of How Italian Spaghetti and Meatballs Works

This Italian spaghetti meatballs recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion like Easter or Christmas. It’s easy to make ahead of time and freeze for later use, so it’s great for meal prep.

And because it makes such a big batch, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd. My kids love helping me make the meatballs, and they’re always excited to eat them afterwards.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Spaghetti and Meatballs

Q: What type of meat is best for this recipe?

The recipe calls for ground beef and pork, but you can also use other types of meat like turkey or veal if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze them for up to 3 months.

Q: How do I prevent the meatballs from drying out?

To prevent the meatballs from drying out, make sure not to overcook them. Also, you can brush them with olive oil before baking to keep them moist.

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes?

You can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomatoes, but keep in mind that they will have a different texture and flavor.

Q: How do I reheat leftover meatballs?

You can reheat leftover meatballs in the oven or on the stovetop with some sauce.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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