Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe: A Classic Favorite

Name: Spaghetti and Meatballs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Spaghetti (high-quality durum wheat); Ground beef (lean); Breadcrumbs (lightly toasted); Parmesan cheese (freshly grated); Fresh basil (chopped); Garlic (minced); Eggs (beaten); Canned tomatoes (whole peeled); Olive oil (extra virgin); Salt and pepper

Published: March 10, 2025

by Mia Hanry

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This spaghetti and meatballs recipe is quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Bursting with flavors from fresh herbs and spices, it’s sheer culinary joy on a plate.
Its vibrant colors are sure to impress anyone at the dinner table.
Versatile enough for various occasions, from casual family meals to festive gatherings!

I once had my friend declare this dish “the best thing I’ve ever tasted,” right before she awkwardly tried to lick her plate clean.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Spaghetti: Use high-quality durum wheat pasta for the best texture; cook until al dente for perfect bite.
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for juicy meatballs while keeping them from being too greasy.
Breadcrumbs: Lightly toasted breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs together without making them dense.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds a nutty flavor that elevates your sauce game.
Fresh Basil: Chopped basil brings freshness; try using it in both sauce and meatball mixture for extra flavor.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds incredible flavor; don’t skimp here—more is merrier!
Eggs: Beaten eggs act as a binder for meatballs; they keep everything nice and moist.
Canned Tomatoes: Whole peeled tomatoes work best; crush them by hand for a rustic feel in your sauce.
Olive Oil: Use good-quality extra virgin olive oil for sautéing onions and enhancing flavors in your sauce.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning; adjust according to taste but don’t be shy!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Spaghetti: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti once bubbling vigorously; cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Sauté Onions and Garlic: In another pan over medium heat, add olive oil. Toss in diced onions until they turn translucent and aromatic, then add minced garlic.

Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, chopped basil, sautéed onion-garlic mix, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.

Create Meatballs: Using wet hands (to avoid sticking), shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Sear Meatballs: In the same skillet used for onions, add more olive oil if needed. Sear the meatballs until browned on all sides for extra flavor—about 8 minutes total.

Add Sauce: Pour canned tomatoes over seared meatballs in the skillet; let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens beautifully.

Now you’re ready to serve this delightful dish! Plate your al dente spaghetti topped with generous portions of those luscious meatballs swimming in their savory tomato bath. Don’t forget an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and basil on top—because we eat with our eyes first!

Eating spaghetti and meatballs isn’t just about nourishment—it’s about gathering around the table where laughter mingles with aromas of garlic and herbs dancing through your home. So grab your forks because this meal makes every bite an experience worth savoring!

You Must Know

The secret to delicious spaghetti and meatballs lies in using freshly grated cheese and quality herbs.
Don’t skip the seasoning; it transforms your dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
The aroma of garlic and simmering sauce fills your kitchen with warmth and joy.