Spaghetti and Meatballs Hearty Sauce
Highlighted under: Comfort Recipes
A classic dish that brings the comfort of Italy to your table, Spaghetti and Meatballs with a hearty sauce is perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
This Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe is a family favorite. The meatballs are tender and flavorful, swimming in a rich tomato sauce that pairs perfectly with al dente spaghetti. It's a dish that evokes warmth and nostalgia, making it ideal for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and savory meatballs packed with flavor
- Hearty sauce that clings beautifully to spaghetti
- Perfect balance of herbs and spices for authentic taste
The Joy of Homemade Meatballs
Making meatballs from scratch is a rewarding experience that enhances the flavors of your dish. By using fresh ingredients and the right spices, you can create rich and savory meatballs that are far superior to store-bought options. The combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, and aromatic herbs provides a delightful texture and depth of flavor, making each bite a treat.
Moreover, the process of rolling the meatballs by hand allows you to feel connected to your cooking. It’s a simple yet satisfying task that can even be a fun activity to do with family or friends. Once cooked, these meatballs become the star of the dish, soaking up the hearty sauce and delivering authentic Italian comfort.
A Sauce That Elevates Your Dish
The sauce in this recipe is not just a topping; it’s a crucial element that ties everything together. By sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil, you lay the groundwork for a sauce that is bursting with flavor. The crushed tomatoes bring a natural sweetness, while the herbs like oregano and basil add aromatic notes that transport you straight to Italy.
Simmering the sauce allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and hearty base that clings to the spaghetti perfectly. This is the kind of sauce that you can easily adapt by adding your favorite vegetables or spices, making it versatile for any occasion. Whether you’re serving a casual weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this sauce will impress your guests.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
When it comes to serving Spaghetti and Meatballs, presentation is key. After tossing the spaghetti with the sauce, plate it elegantly and top it with the meatballs. A generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a creamy finish, while fresh basil leaves provide a pop of color and aroma. This simple touch elevates the dish, making it visually appealing and inviting.
For added indulgence, consider serving garlic bread on the side. The crispy, buttery slices are perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate. Pair the meal with a light salad or a glass of red wine to enhance the Italian dining experience. With these thoughtful touches, your Spaghetti and Meatballs will be a hit at every dinner table.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- 12 oz spaghetti
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
Combine all ingredients thoroughly for the best meatball texture.
Instructions
Make the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Roll into golf ball-sized meatballs and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 10 minutes.
Cook the Meatballs
Add the meatballs to the sauce, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes until cooked through.
Cook the Spaghetti
While the meatballs are cooking, boil a pot of salted water. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Serve
Toss the spaghetti with the sauce. Serve topped with meatballs, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs!
Tips for Perfect Meatballs
To achieve the best meatballs, avoid overmixing the ingredients as this can lead to a dense texture. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed, and then form the meatballs. Additionally, using a mix of beef and pork can add complexity to the flavor and moisture.
If you have time, let the meatballs rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape during the simmering process and allows the flavors to develop further.
Variations to Explore
Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce or incorporate chopped chili peppers into the meatball mixture. You can also experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique flavor profile.
If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using ground turkey or chicken for the meatballs. They can be just as flavorful when seasoned correctly and are a healthier alternative that still delivers on taste.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce from drying out.
For longer storage, consider freezing the meatballs and sauce together. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the oven for a quick and delicious meal.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a lighter option.
→ How can I make the sauce vegetarian?
You can substitute meatballs with vegetarian options and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
→ Can I freeze the meatballs?
Absolutely! Freeze the cooked meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
→ What can I serve with spaghetti and meatballs?
Garlic bread and a fresh salad make excellent accompaniments.
Spaghetti and Meatballs Hearty Sauce
A classic dish that brings the comfort of Italy to your table, Spaghetti and Meatballs with a hearty sauce is perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- 12 oz spaghetti
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Roll into golf ball-sized meatballs and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 10 minutes.
Add the meatballs to the sauce, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes until cooked through.
While the meatballs are cooking, boil a pot of salted water. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Toss the spaghetti with the sauce. Serve topped with meatballs, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 42g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 22g