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Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe photo

Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

This Spaghetti and Meatballs is a classic comfort dish loaded with flavor! Homemade meatballs simmered in rich tomato sauce served over perfectly cooked pasta.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

  • 1.25 pounds ground beef
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup seasoned bread crumbs
  • 1 whole egg
  • 3 tablespoons chopped parsley
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup olive oil

For the Sauce:

  • 1 cup onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cans tomato sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 1 tablespoon sugar

For the Pasta:

  • 1 lb. spaghetti
  • to taste Fresh basil, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Instructions:

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, milk, seasoned bread crumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Mix gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough meatballs.
  • Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a plate or baking sheet as you work.
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the skillet. Sear until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meatballs and set them aside.
  • In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sautĂ© until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth, stirring to combine.
  • Add dried basil, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and sugar to the sauce. Bring to a simmer, then return the meatballs to the skillet. Cover and let them simmer in the sauce for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  • Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti in a large pot of boiling salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Once the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is thickened, combine the spaghetti with the sauce and meatballs in the skillet. Toss gently to coat. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Large Pot
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Meat Thermometer

Notes

  • For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs to the sauce.
  • Leftover meatballs can be frozen for up to three months.
  • Serve with garlic bread for a complete meal!