Description
A comforting Italian-American classic, these juicy meatballs are simmered in rich tomato sauce and served over spaghetti for the ultimate hearty dinner.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon sugar
12 ounces spaghetti
Fresh basil or extra Parmesan for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined and form into 1.5-inch meatballs.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning to get all sides golden. Transfer to a plate.
3. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Stir in oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), tomato paste, and cook for a minute. Add crushed tomatoes and sugar. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Gently return the meatballs to the skillet. Cover and simmer on low for 20-25 minutes, or until meatballs are fully cooked and sauce thickens.
5. Meanwhile, cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve a bit of pasta water, then drain.
6. Toss the cooked spaghetti with a ladle of sauce. Plate and top with meatballs and extra sauce. Garnish with fresh basil or Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Do not overmix the meat mixture—just combine until it sticks together for tender meatballs.
Browning the meatballs adds a rich, caramelized flavor—don’t skip it.
You can double the sauce and freeze half for an easy meal later.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 68g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: spaghetti and meatballs, classic dinner, family meals