If there’s ever been a dish that lights up everyone’s face around the table, it’s this Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe. Imagine tender, savory meatballs nestled in a robust tomato sauce, all served over a tangle of perfectly cooked spaghetti. It’s hearty, satisfying, and brings together the best of comfort food with a sprinkle of nostalgia. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or making a cozy dinner for two, this classic is always a hit—and it’s simple enough for even a weeknight. The flavors are bold, the method is foolproof, and everyone is guaranteed to ask for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Part of the magic of this Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe is that it uses straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients, yet each one packs a punch of flavor or adds something special to the dish. Every component has a purpose, from juicy ground meat to aromatic garlic and cheese, making a meal that tastes like a hug.
- Ground Beef (or Beef and Pork Mix): This forms the heart of your meatballs—using a blend can add extra richness and flavor.
- Breadcrumbs: These tenderize the meatballs and hold everything together for that perfect bite.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty, nutty depth to your meatballs and a little extra umami.
- Egg: Acts as the glue that binds your meatball ingredients into tender spheres.
- Garlic: Essential for both meatballs and sauce, it infuses a warm, savory kick throughout.
- Fresh Parsley (or Dried): Brings a burst of freshness and color—fresh is ideal, but dried works in a pinch.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Let these season each layer, awakening all the flavors as you go.
- Olive Oil: Gives the sauce depth and helps sauté those sweet onions just right.
- Onion: Sautéed onion sets a sweet, mellow base for your tomato sauce.
- Crushed Tomatoes: The backbone of your sauce, bringing body, tang, and vibrant color.
- Dried Basil: Adds herby sweetness and rounds out the sauce’s savory notes.
- Pinch of Sugar (Optional): Balances acidity in the tomatoes if needed, especially with more tart brands.
- Spaghetti: Use your favorite shape—classic spaghetti strands are perfect for cradling the sauce and meatballs.
- Grated Parmesan & Fresh Basil (Optional for Serving): Finish with cheese and herbs for visual appeal and extra flavor.
How to Make Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Mix and Shape the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine your ground beef (or mix), breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together with your hands or a fork, being careful not to overwork the mixture—you want your meatballs to turn out tender, not tough. Once blended, roll the mixture into balls about 1 1/2 inches wide; you should get between 16 and 18 meatballs, perfect for sharing (or sneaking a few extra for yourself).
Step 2: Create the Sauce Base
Grab a roomy skillet or saucepan and add olive oil, heating it over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, and sauté it for about 3 to 4 minutes until it’s soft and fragrant. Next, introduce your minced garlic, letting it cook for about 30 seconds—just until you smell that wonderful aroma wafting up from the pan. This forms a flavorful foundation for your sauce.
Step 3: Simmer the Tomato Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, sprinkle in the dried basil, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar if your tomatoes are extra tangy. Stir everything together, then bring your sauce to a gentle simmer. The kitchen will already start smelling incredible—this is your cue that you’re on the right track for a classic Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe.
Step 4: Add and Cook the Meatballs
Carefully nestle the raw meatballs into the simmering sauce. It’s best to do this gently so they stay together. Cover the pan and let everything bubble away on a low simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. Give them an occasional, gentle stir to make sure nothing sticks. The meatballs will cook through, soaking up all the saucy flavor and releasing their own delicious juices into the mix.
Step 5: Boil the Spaghetti
While your sauce and meatballs finish cooking, bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Drop in your spaghetti and cook it according to the package directions until it’s just al dente—tender but still with a pleasant bite. Drain the noodles, and set them aside while you gather the crew for dinner.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Divide the hot spaghetti among your plates, ladle over spoonfuls of those gorgeous meatballs and rich, red sauce, and sprinkle everything with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if you like. This Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe truly comes together in every hearty, saucy forkful.
How to Serve Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
Garnishes
The finishing touches go a long way! A generous shower of grated Parmesan cheese melts into the warm sauce, while fresh basil leaves add color and a pop of herby fragrance. For a little kick, you can even add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
Side Dishes
No pasta night is complete without a crunchy side salad—think arugula with lemon vinaigrette or a traditional Caesar. Add a basket of garlic bread or soft, warm dinner rolls for soaking up extra sauce. Roasted or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans are also fantastic, rounding out the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling playful, serve meatballs and sauce in individual ramekins over a nest of spaghetti, or twist the noodles into “nests” on each plate for a fancy touch. For family style, pile everything onto a big platter and let everyone help themselves—a true Italian-American table moment with this Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe at the center.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Store the meatballs and sauce together in an airtight container. If possible, keep the spaghetti separate to prevent it from absorbing too much liquid and getting mushy.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully! Portion meatballs and sauce (without the pasta) into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for a quick homemade dinner any night. Cook fresh spaghetti to serve alongside when ready.
Reheating
To reheat, place the meatballs and sauce in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot. If the sauce thickened in the fridge, add a splash of water to loosen it up. Microwave works too—just cover and reheat in short bursts, stirring between each to warm everything evenly.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken for the meatballs?
Absolutely! While classic beef (or a beef and pork combo) gives a richer flavor, ground turkey or chicken are lighter options and still delicious. Just be gentle when mixing, as these meats can be a bit leaner and may need an extra splash of olive oil or milk for added moisture.
Can I make the Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for regular ones and be sure your spaghetti is gluten-free. Everything else in the recipe fits naturally into a gluten-free diet, so everyone can enjoy this comfort meal.
Is it okay to bake the meatballs instead of simmering in the sauce?
Definitely. For a slightly firmer texture, arrange the shaped meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for about 15–20 minutes. Then transfer them to your cooked sauce and simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors—it’s an easy swap and makes clean-up a breeze.
What kind of tomatoes are best for the sauce?
For convenience and flavor, a high-quality canned crushed tomato works best in this Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe. Look for brands with no added sugar or preservatives for the purest taste. If you have ripe summer tomatoes, you can also pulse them in a blender for a fresher sauce base.
How can I double this recipe for a crowd?
This dish scales up beautifully! Simply double each ingredient, use a larger pot or two saucepans, and allow for a bit more simmering time if your pots are very full. Meatballs and sauce can keep warm on the stove, making this ideal for parties or meal prepping.
Final Thoughts
It’s amazing how just a few honest ingredients can come together to make something so universally comforting and joyful. If you’re craving a meal that draws everyone together, please give this Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe a whirl—you’ll love how simple, hearty, and utterly satisfying it is from the very first bite.
Print
Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe is a classic Italian-American dish that is simple to make and always a family favorite. Tender meatballs in a flavorful tomato sauce served over al dente spaghetti – a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of sugar (optional)
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- Grated Parmesan and fresh basil for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Make the meatballs: In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper until just combined. Roll into 1 1/2-inch meatballs (about 16–18 total).
- Prepare the sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and sauté until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Pour in crushed tomatoes, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar if using. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook the meatballs: Carefully place the meatballs into the sauce. Cover and simmer on low for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until meatballs are cooked through.
- Cook the spaghetti: Meanwhile, cook spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Serve: Serve meatballs and sauce over spaghetti. Top with Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- You can bake the meatballs at 400°F for 15–20 minutes instead of simmering in the sauce.
- Make a double batch and freeze extras for a quick dinner later.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
