italian meatball spaghetti recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
italian meatball spaghetti recipe
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The Best italian meatball spaghetti recipe

Italian meatball spaghetti is a classic dish that brings together the rich flavors of Italy in a comforting and hearty meal. Growing up, this was one of my favorite dishes that my mom would make on weekends, and now I make it for my own family.

The combination of tender, flavorful meatballs and al dente spaghetti in a savory tomato sauce is something that never fails to please. I love this recipe because it’s versatile and can be enjoyed by everyone, from kids to grandparents.

The aroma of garlic, herbs, and simmering tomatoes fills the kitchen, making the whole house feel warm and inviting. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein from the meatballs and vitamins from the tomato sauce, making it a healthy option for a family dinner.

It is a perfect recipe for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering. The best part is that it’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prepping or entertaining guests.

Italian Meatball Spaghetti

Italian Meatball Spaghetti

4.6 from 1394 votes

A comforting and flavorful dish featuring homemade meatballs and spaghetti in a rich tomato sauce. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 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 cup tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Spaghetti

8 oz spaghetti
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
2Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
4Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
6Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly browned.
7The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).
8Remove from the oven and set aside.
9While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce.
10In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
11Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
12Add the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, including the juice.
13Stir in the oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
14Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
15The sauce should thicken slightly and the flavors should meld together.
16Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce, stirring gently to coat them evenly.
17Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the meatballs to absorb some of the sauce flavors.
18If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a bit of water.
19Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente.
20Drain the pasta, reserving some of the pasta water.
21Toss the cooked spaghetti with the meatball sauce, adding a little pasta water if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
22Divide the spaghetti and meatballs among plates, ensuring each serving has a good amount of sauce and meatballs.
23Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
24Enjoy your Italian meatball spaghetti while it’s hot.

🔧Equipment

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

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 650 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 90mg🧂Sodium: 1100mg🌾Total Carbs: 60g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

You can make the meatballs a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the meatballs in the sauce and cook the spaghetti fresh. To make this recipe healthier, use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and whole wheat spaghetti.

This Italian meatball spaghetti recipe is a family favorite that can be enjoyed on any occasion. It is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a special family gathering.

The leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat the dish in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of water to the sauce if it has thickened.

Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. This dish is always a hit with family and friends, and it’s a great way to bring everyone together around the dinner table.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Meatball Spaghetti

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef for the meatballs?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a healthier option. Just keep in mind that turkey may require a bit more seasoning and careful handling to prevent dryness.

2. Can I freeze the meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze the meatballs after cooking them. Let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the sauce.

3. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the meatballs in a skillet first, then add them to the slow cooker with the sauce ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the cooked spaghetti before serving.

4. What can I do if the sauce is too thick?

If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a bit of water or pasta water. This will help achieve the desired consistency.

5. Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta if you have dietary restrictions. Make sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions, as cooking times may vary. The sauce and meatballs will still pair well with gluten-free pasta.

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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