There’s something truly magical about gathering around the table for a hearty plate of spaghetti and meatballs. For me, it’s reminiscent of those cozy Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s house, where the aroma of simmering tomato sauce filled the air. This classic dish not only warms the belly but also the heart, creating cherished memories with every bite. Today, I’m sharing my favorite version of this timeless classic — with a little twist that my family adores. The subtle addition of fresh herbs and a touch of spice elevates the experience, making it unforgettable.
Why You’ll Love This Pasta Dish
- Comfort in a Bowl: This dish is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for those chilly evenings when you need a warm, satisfying meal. The combination of tender meatballs and rich tomato sauce envelops you in warmth and coziness. The flavors meld together beautifully, offering a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s the kind of meal that invites everyone to linger at the table, sharing stories and laughter.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the rich flavors and tender meatballs. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Even picky eaters will find something to love about this dish, making it an ideal choice for family dinners. Whether it’s a regular weeknight or a special occasion, this dish fits right in. The simplicity of the ingredients ensures that everyone, regardless of age, can appreciate its deliciousness.
- Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks. The process is simple enough to follow without much fuss, yet the results are impressively delicious. You can have a comforting meal on the table with minimal effort, leaving more time to relax and enjoy. It’s a recipe that strikes the perfect balance between convenience and flavor.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the sauce and meatballs in advance, making dinnertime a breeze. This means less stress during the evening rush, allowing you to enjoy your meal without a hectic last-minute scramble. Simply reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta for an effortless dinner solution. This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for meal prepping or entertaining guests.
- Budget-Friendly: Using simple, affordable ingredients, this dish won’t break the bank. With ingredients that are often pantry staples, it’s an economical choice that doesn’t compromise on taste. It’s a great way to feed a family or entertain guests without overspending. The recipe is adaptable, allowing you to substitute or add ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 550 per serving
Ingredients
- For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
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For the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- Salt, for pasta water
Instructions
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Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until just combined. Shape into 1-inch meatballs. For uniformity, use a small ice cream scoop to ensure even-sized meatballs, which will cook more evenly. This helps the meatballs cook at the same rate, ensuring consistent texture and flavor.
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Cook the Meatballs: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the meatballs on all sides. Remove from skillet and set aside. Browning the meatballs not only locks in their juices but also adds a depth of flavor to the sauce when cooked in the same pan. The caramelized bits left in the pan enhance the sauce’s richness.
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Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic; sauté until translucent. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer. Be sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet—these are packed with flavor. This technique, known as deglazing, is crucial for a robust sauce.
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Simmer the Sauce: Return the meatballs to the skillet. Cover and let simmer on low heat for about 25 minutes, until meatballs are cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure the sauce doesn’t stick and burn at the bottom of the pan. The slow simmer allows the flavors to meld, creating a harmonious dish.
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Cook the Pasta: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Adding salt to the water enhances the flavor of the pasta, making each bite more savory. Be sure to reserve a cup of pasta water, which can be used to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
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Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce and meatballs. Serve hot, with extra Parmesan cheese on top if desired. For added freshness, garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also enhance the final dish, adding a touch of richness.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet with lid
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Wooden spoon
- Tongs or slotted spoon
Each tool contributes to making the cooking process smoother. A sturdy skillet is crucial for evenly browning the meatballs and simmering the sauce. A large pot ensures the pasta cooks without sticking, and a wooden spoon is gentle on your cookware while mixing ingredients. Tongs or a slotted spoon allow for easy handling of the meatballs without breaking them.
The Benefits of Each Ingredient
- Ground Beef: Provides protein and a rich, hearty flavor. Opt for a blend with a bit of fat (like 80/20) for juicier meatballs. The fat content enhances flavor and moisture, ensuring the meatballs remain tender.
- Breadcrumbs: Help bind the meatballs, giving them a perfect texture. Using fresh breadcrumbs can add a more tender touch than store-bought varieties. They absorb the meat juices, contributing to a moist texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory, nutty flavor to both the meatballs and sauce. Freshly grated is always best, as it melts more smoothly into the mixture. The cheese also acts as a binding agent, enhancing texture.
- Garlic and Onion: Essential for depth of flavor in the sauce. They form a fragrant base that enhances the sweetness of the tomatoes. Garlic, in particular, adds a pungent kick that balances the dish.
- Crushed Tomatoes: The base of your sauce, offering a fresh, tangy taste. Opt for a brand with no added sugar to keep the sauce naturally flavorful. The tomatoes break down during cooking, thickening the sauce.
- Oregano: Brings an earthy aroma and authentic Italian flavor. Fresh oregano can be used if you have it, but remember to use a bit more than dried. Its subtle peppery notes complement the tomatoes perfectly.
- Olive Oil: Adds a touch of healthy fat and enhances flavor. Choose a good quality extra-virgin olive oil for the best taste. It provides a fruity richness that ties the ingredients together.
What to Serve With This Pasta Dish
Pair this spaghetti and meatballs with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. A side of garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. For a complete Italian feast, consider serving with a glass of Chianti or your favorite red wine. The acidity of the wine cuts through the richness of the sauce, balancing the flavors beautifully. If you’re hosting, a fruit-based dessert like a lemon sorbet or a berry tart can cleanse the palate and provide a sweet ending to the meal.
Storage & Leftover Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta and meatballs on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also freeze the meatballs and sauce separately for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. When freezing, ensure the meatballs are fully cooled and separated on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag to prevent sticking. This way, you can grab just the right amount for a quick meal, making it perfect for meal prep.
I hope this classic spaghetti and meatballs recipe becomes a staple in your household, just as it has in mine. It’s a dish that brings people together, offering comfort and joy with every bite. Enjoy the warmth and love that comes from cooking and sharing this meal with your loved ones. Happy cooking!
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Chicken Noodle Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together garlic, rice vinegar, soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, Sriracha, hoisin, and sesame oil to make the dressing.
- Shred the cooked chicken breast into strands similar in width to the spaghetti and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Boil a large pot of lightly salted water, then cook the spaghetti until al dente, about 12 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, chicken, carrots, bell pepper, and green onions. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss by hand until well combined.
- Seal the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 to 12 hours, tossing occasionally for best flavor.
- Before serving, add peanuts, basil, mint, and cilantro to the salad. Toss well and adjust seasoning to taste.