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Spaghetti and Meatballs

Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs for Cozy Family Dinners

This homemade spaghetti and meatballs recipe is the perfect comfort food for family dinners, bringing rich flavors and warm memories.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1 can Whole Tomatoes Perfect base for a robust sauce; feel free to use fresh when in season!
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Adds richness; substitute with any neutral oil if you're in a pinch.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Enhances the depth of flavor; can be replaced with more olive oil for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 Onion Brings sweetness to the sauce; shallots work well as a substitute.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Essential for flavor; fresh minced garlic is always best over powders.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning A delightful blend of herbs; swap in oregano or basil if you prefer.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Elevates the Italian notes; fresh is a great alternative if you have some handy.
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar Balances the acidity; honey makes a wonderful natural alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Adds a touch of heat; adjust to your heat preference or omit entirely.
  • to taste Salt Essential seasoning; remember to adjust it according to your taste.
  • to taste Pepper Essential seasoning; remember to adjust it according to your taste.
For the Meatballs
  • 1 cup Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs Helps bind the meatballs; use plain breadcrumbs with Italian herbs if you're out.
  • 1/4 cup Milk Keeps the meatballs moist; whole milk is recommended, or use almond/oat milk for a dairy-free option.
  • 1 pound Ground Beef The star protein; you can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • 1/2 pound Ground Pork (or Italian Sausage) Adds juiciness and flavor; ground beef alone is also a great choice.
  • 1 large Egg Binds the meatball mixture; consider a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
  • 1/4 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Adds amazing flavor; for a dairy-free option, use nutritional yeast.
  • to taste Fresh Parsley Adds freshness and garnish; feel free to substitute with basil or skip if necessary.
  • to taste Onion Powder Enhances flavor; can be omitted or replaced with fresh onion if desired.
For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces Spaghetti A classic pairing with meatballs; any pasta shape will complement this dish beautifully.
  • to taste Fresh Basil Optional for delicious garnish and extra flavor!

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs
  1. Begin by mincing 4 cloves of garlic and placing them in a bowl. Then, open a can of whole tomatoes and break them up with your hands in a large mixing bowl, ensuring they are well-chopped.
  2. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Sauté 1 chopped onion for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring often.
  3. Introduce the tomatoes and spices: 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and red pepper flakes. Allow to simmer on low for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of Italian seasoned breadcrumbs with 1/4 cup of milk, stirring until a paste forms. Mix in 1 pound of ground beef, 1/2 pound of ground pork, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan, and season with salt, pepper, and freshly chopped parsley. Gently combine, avoiding over-mixing, then shape into 18 meatballs.
  5. Carefully place the meatballs into your simmering sauce, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the pot and let the meatballs simmer gently for about 35 to 45 minutes, turning them halfway through.
  6. Cook 12 ounces of spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and plate it generously. Top each serving with the meatballs and ladle on the sauce. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil and more grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 6gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Expert Tips: Prep ahead to save time, mix gently for tender meatballs, simmer longer for richer flavors, taste and adjust seasonings, and freeze portions for easy reheating.

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