Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs

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Nothing feels more comforting than a big plate of spaghetti topped with juicy, tender meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This classic Italian-American dish brings families together around the table, filling the kitchen with irresistible aromas. Made with simple ingredients, this recipe gives you perfectly seasoned meatballs and a flavorful sauce that clings beautifully to spaghetti for the ultimate homemade dinner.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped

  • 1 large egg

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

  • 1 tsp dried basil (or 1 tbsp fresh)

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

  • 12 oz spaghetti

  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Make the Meatballs:

    • In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, onion, egg, parsley, salt, pepper, and oregano.

    • Mix gently until combined, then shape into 1 1/2-inch meatballs.

  2. Cook the Meatballs:

    • Heat a large skillet with a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.

    • Add the meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides (about 5–6 minutes). Remove and set aside.

  3. Prepare the Sauce:

    • In the same skillet, add olive oil, onion, and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and softened.

    • Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper.

    • Simmer for 10 minutes.

  4. Simmer Together:

    • Add browned meatballs to the sauce, cover, and simmer gently for 25–30 minutes until cooked through and flavorful.

  5. Cook the Pasta:

    • Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

  6. Serve:

    • Toss spaghetti with some sauce, plate, and top with meatballs.

    • Sprinkle with Parmesan and garnish with fresh herbs.

✨ Tip: For even more flavor, bake the meatballs in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes instead of pan-frying, then finish cooking them in the sauce.

Would you like me to also give you a cheesy baked spaghetti and meatballs version for a cozy casserole-style dinner?

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