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- 12 oz spaghetti - 1 lb ground beef - 1/2 lb ground pork (or substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option) - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped - 1 egg - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 tsp dried oregano - 1 tsp dried basil - 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) - 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste To make classic spaghetti and meatballs, you need a few key ingredients. Spaghetti is the base for this dish. The meatballs require ground beef, pork, or tofu. Breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs. Fresh herbs like parsley add flavor. You will also need garlic, egg, and seasonings like oregano and basil. - Additional spices - Fresh herbs for garnish Feel free to add your favorite spices to the sauce. A pinch of chili powder can add heat. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten the dish when serving. - Types of pasta - Quality canned tomatoes For pasta, I recommend brands like Barilla or De Cecco. These brands cook well and have great texture. For canned tomatoes, go for San Marzano. They are sweet and rich, perfect for sauce. Use high-quality ingredients to elevate your meal. {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, gather your ingredients. In a large bowl, combine: - 1 lb ground beef - 1/2 lb ground pork (or tofu) - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 egg - 1 tsp dried oregano - 1 tsp dried basil - 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) - Salt and pepper to taste Mix these ingredients until they come together. Be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can make meatballs tough. You want them tender and juicy. Next, it’s time to shape the meatballs. With clean hands, take some mixture and form it into 1.5-inch balls. Place each ball on a baking sheet. Now, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add your meatballs in batches. Brown them on all sides for about 5 to 7 minutes. This gives them great flavor. Remove the browned meatballs and set them aside. In the same skillet, add a can of 28 oz crushed tomatoes. Bring the tomatoes to a gentle simmer. Taste the sauce and add salt or more herbs if you want. This is your chance to adjust the flavor. Gently add the browned meatballs back into the sauce. Cover the skillet and let them simmer for 20 minutes. This step helps the flavors mix. While the meatballs cook, prepare your spaghetti. Cook 12 oz of spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside. When everything is ready, plate the spaghetti. Top it with the meatballs and sauce. Enjoy your homemade classic spaghetti and meatballs! To make great meatballs, focus on texture. Use both ground beef and ground pork for the best flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian option, tofu works well too. Keep the meatballs moist by adding breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan. Mix the ingredients gently; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. For extra flavor, add minced garlic and fresh parsley. You can also experiment with spices. Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. Customizing the sauce is easy. Start with crushed tomatoes and simmer them for depth. You can add fresh herbs like basil or oregano to enhance the taste. If you like a sweeter sauce, add a touch of sugar. You can prepare the sauce ahead of time. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This makes dinner prep quick and simple. Pairing wine with spaghetti and meatballs can elevate your meal. A medium-bodied red wine, like Chianti, complements the dish well. Consider adding side dishes too. A simple green salad or garlic bread works perfectly. They add freshness and balance to a hearty meal. Pro Tips Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and basil can elevate the flavor profile of your meatballs and sauce significantly compared to dried herbs. Don't Overmix: When combining the meatball ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough meatballs. Simmer for Flavor: Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for at least 20 minutes. This helps them absorb the flavors of the sauce. Choose the Right Pasta: While spaghetti is classic, you can also try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier alternative. {{image_2}} You can switch to tofu and herbs for a tasty twist. Use firm tofu instead of meat. Crumble the tofu and mix it with herbs and spices. This helps create flavor-packed meatless meatballs. Add your favorite vegetables, like mushrooms or zucchini, for more texture. Another way to go meatless is by making meatless meatballs. Use a mix of lentils, beans, and breadcrumbs. This option is hearty and full of protein. You can also add grated carrots for a sweet touch. If you need a gluten-free meal, choose gluten-free pasta. There are many brands available that taste great. Look for ones made from rice or quinoa. These options cook well and hold their shape. For meatballs, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. This will help bind the meatballs together. You can also use ground oats or crushed nuts as alternatives. Just make sure they fit your diet. Spice up your spaghetti with new flavors. Experiment with herbs from different cultures. For example, try adding cumin or coriander for a Middle Eastern flair. You can also sprinkle in some smoked paprika for a smoky taste. Switching out the sauce can also change the dish. Instead of crushed tomatoes, you can use a spicy arrabbiata sauce or a creamy Alfredo. Each sauce gives the dish a unique spin. Enjoy exploring these diverse flavors while making your classic meal! Store your spaghetti and meatballs in the fridge. Use airtight containers to keep them fresh. You can place the meatballs and sauce together or separately, depending on your preference. Make sure to cool them to room temperature before sealing. This helps avoid sogginess. Leftovers can last up to three days in the fridge. To freeze your meatballs and sauce, let them cool completely. Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the meatballs and sauce together or separately. Meatballs freeze well for up to three months. For easy meals later, label your containers with the date. When it's time to enjoy your frozen meal, use one of these thawing methods: - Refrigerator: Move the meatballs and sauce to the fridge overnight. - Microwave: Use the defrost setting to thaw quickly. To reheat your spaghetti and meatballs, use a skillet or microwave. If using a skillet, add a splash of water or sauce to keep them moist. Heat over medium-low until warm, stirring gently. If using a microwave, cover the dish to keep moisture in. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until everything is hot. These methods help maintain the flavor and texture of your dish. Enjoy your meal without missing out on the delicious taste! Yes, you can use just one type of meat. Many people like to mix beef and pork for more flavor. Mixing meats gives your meatballs a nice texture. You can also use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option. For a vegetarian dish, try using tofu. Make sure to press and crumble the tofu before mixing it with the other ingredients. Leftovers can last up to three days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container for best results. If you see mold or the meatballs smell off, throw them away. Always check for signs of spoilage to keep your family safe. You can make this dish ahead of time. Prepare the meatballs but do not cook them right away. Store them in the fridge for one day or freeze them for up to a month. To store uncooked meatballs, place them on a baking sheet first. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. This way, you can pull them out and cook them when you’re ready. This blog post covered the key ingredients and steps for a great spaghetti and meatballs dish. You learned about main and optional ingredients, tips for perfect meatballs, and how to make the sauce. I shared variations for different diets and storage tips to help you keep leftovers fresh. Cooking should be fun and creative. Use this guide to make a dish that suits your taste, impress your guests, or enjoy a comforting meal at home. Your culinary journey starts here!

Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs

A traditional Italian dish featuring spaghetti served with savory meatballs in a rich tomato sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz spaghetti
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 0.5 lb ground pork or tofu
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
  • 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 egg egg
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork (or tofu), breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, egg, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
  • Shape the Meatballs: With your hands, shape the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
  • Brown the Meatballs: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
  • Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Add salt and additional herbs if desired.
  • Combine: Gently add the browned meatballs back into the skillet with the sauce. Cover and let them simmer in the sauce for about 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
  • Cook the Spaghetti: While the meatballs are simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  • Serve: Plate the spaghetti and top with the meatballs and sauce. Sprinkle extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Notes

For a vegetarian option, substitute ground pork with tofu.
Keyword Italian, meatballs, pasta, spaghetti