Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

4 stars
4.36 (10)
Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
60 mins
Total Time:
80mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on June 26, 2024

Indulge in a classic Italian-American dish with this homemade spaghetti and meatballs recipe. Tender meatballs made with a blend of ground beef, pork, and seasonings are simmered in a rich tomato sauce and served over al dente spaghetti. This comforting and filling dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 pound ground pork
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  2. Form the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes.
  3. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and cook until softened.
  4. Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20-30 minutes.
  5. Add baked meatballs to the sauce and continue to simmer for another 15-20 minutes.
  6. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with a little olive oil.
  7. Serve meatballs and sauce over spaghetti. Garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.
  8. Enjoy your delicious homemade spaghetti and meatballs!

Interesting Facts

  • Meatballs are believed to have originated in Ancient Rome, where they were made with a mixture of ground meat, bread, and spices.
  • Spaghetti and meatballs gained popularity in the United States thanks to Italian immigrants who adapted traditional Italian recipes to American tastes.
  • Contrary to popular belief, spaghetti and meatballs is not a traditional Italian dish but rather an Italian-American creation.