Spaghetti with meatballs is a classic comfort food that brings together the perfect blend of savory meat, tangy tomato sauce, and tender pasta. This timeless dish is a favorite for family dinners, gatherings, and special occasions. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create delicious, homemade spaghetti with meatballs, share essential tips for the best results, explore variations, and answer common questions.

Why Spaghetti with Meatballs is a Must-Try Dish

Spaghetti with meatballs is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary tradition that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Making it from scratch allows you to enjoy the full depth of flavors and the satisfaction of a homemade dish. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to please everyone.

Who Is This Recipe For?

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves hearty, flavorful meals. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef, these tips and techniques will help you create a delicious and satisfying spaghetti with meatballs that will become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients for Spaghetti with Meatballs

For the Meatballs

• Ground Beef: 1 lb (80% lean)
• Ground Pork: 1/2 lb
• Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup, grated
• Parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Egg: 1, beaten
• Milk: 1/4 cup
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
• Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional)

For the Tomato Sauce

• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Onion: 1, finely chopped
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Crushed Tomatoes: 28 oz can
• Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
• Sugar: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
• Dried Basil: 1 teaspoon
• Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon
• Red Wine: 1/2 cup (optional)
• Fresh Basil: 1/4 cup, chopped (for garnish)

For the Spaghetti

• Spaghetti: 1 lb
• Salt: For the pasta water
• Parmesan Cheese: For serving

Equipment Needed

Ensure you have the following kitchen equipment ready:

• Large Mixing Bowls: For preparing the meatballs.
• Large Pot: For cooking the spaghetti.
• Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: For cooking the meatballs and sauce.
• Baking Sheet: For baking the meatballs (if desired).
• Wooden Spoon: For stirring the sauce.
• Tongs or Pasta Fork: For handling the spaghetti.

Directions for Making Spaghetti with Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, beaten egg, milk, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until just combined. Overmixing can make the meatballs tough.
2. Form the Meatballs: Using your hands or a small ice cream scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

1. Brown the Meatballs: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
2. Alternative Method: If you prefer, you can bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
2. Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, salt, black pepper, dried basil, and dried oregano. If using, add the red wine. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
3. Simmer with Meatballs: Add the browned meatballs to the sauce. Simmer on low heat for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatballs to cook through.

Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Boil the Spaghetti: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the spaghetti, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

1. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce and meatballs. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.
2. Serve: Serve the spaghetti and meatballs in bowls or on plates. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips for Perfect Spaghetti with Meatballs

• Quality Meat: Use a mix of ground beef and pork for tender and flavorful meatballs.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the meatball ingredients just until combined to avoid tough meatballs.
• Simmer Slowly: Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
• Fresh Herbs: Use fresh herbs like basil and parsley for the best flavor.

Storing and Serving Spaghetti with Meatballs

Storing

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often improve after a day or two.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water to the sauce if it has thickened too much.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Meatballs: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for a spicy kick.
• Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs: Insert a small cube of mozzarella cheese in the center of each meatball before cooking.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the meatballs with vegetarian meatballs or use a mix of roasted vegetables in the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought meatballs?

Yes, you can use store-bought meatballs for a quicker version. Just simmer them in the sauce until heated through.

How do I prevent my meatballs from falling apart?

Ensure your meatball mixture is well-bound with enough breadcrumbs and egg. Chilling the meatballs for 30 minutes before cooking can also help them hold their shape.

What can I use instead of ground pork?

You can substitute ground pork with ground turkey, chicken, or veal.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

How do I add more flavor to the sauce?

For a richer flavor, add a splash of red wine, a dash of Worcestershire sauce, or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.

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