Few dishes bring more comfort to the table than a steaming plate of spaghetti topped with tender, juicy meatballs smothered in rich tomato sauce. This classic Italian-American favorite is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners. Made with a blend of ground beef and seasonings, slow-simmered in a savory sauce, and paired with perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a meal that feels like a warm hug with every bite.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
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1 lb (450g) ground beef (or half beef, half pork for more flavor)
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/4 cup milk
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1 large egg
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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2 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
For the Sauce:
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
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1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
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1 tsp sugar (optional, balances acidity)
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1 tsp dried basil
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1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
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Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
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1 lb (450g) spaghetti
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Salt for boiling water
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Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
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Extra Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
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Prepare the Meatballs
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In a large bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 2 minutes to soften.
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Add ground beef, egg, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined—don’t overwork.
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Roll mixture into 1 ½-inch meatballs.
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Cook the Meatballs
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Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
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Sear meatballs until browned on all sides (they don’t need to be fully cooked through yet). Remove and set aside.
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Make the Sauce
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In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and cook until fragrant.
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Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, sugar, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
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Gently add the meatballs into the sauce, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes until the meatballs are fully cooked and tender.
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Cook the Spaghetti
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While the sauce simmers, cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Assemble and Serve
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Plate the spaghetti, ladle sauce and meatballs on top, and sprinkle with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs.
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✨ Serving Tip: Pair with garlic bread and a fresh salad for the ultimate comfort meal.
Would you like me to also give you a variation with baked meatballs (a little easier and lighter), or keep it classic stovetop style?
