Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

Hey there, fellow food enthusiasts! Today, I’m super excited to share with you one of my all-time favorite recipes: Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs. There’s just something so comforting about a big plate of tender meatballs smothered in rich marinara sauce, served over a bed of perfectly cooked spaghetti. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, and the results are always mouthwateringly delicious. So, let’s dive into the kitchen and whip up this classic Italian dish together! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you later.

I love Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

I am absolutely passionate about cooking up a storm in the kitchen. There’s nothing quite like the joy of bringing delicious homemade meals to the table, especially when it’s a classic like Spaghetti and Meatballs.

Let me tell you, in our household, this recipe is an absolute hit! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a weekend get-together with friends, nothing brings everyone together quite like the aroma of tender meatballs simmering away in a flavorful marinara sauce.

And the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to whip up, even with a busy schedule filled with school pickups, soccer practices, and endless to-do lists. So, if you’re ready to add a touch of homemade goodness to your family meals, join me in the kitchen as we dive into this scrumptious Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe. Let’s create some unforgettable memories around the dinner table together!

What to eat with Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs

Elevate your dining experience with these delectable accompaniments that perfectly complement your Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs!

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and infused with garlic butter, this classic side dish is the ultimate pairing for your spaghetti and meatballs.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast to the hearty flavors of the main dish.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of colorful roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes add a burst of flavor and vibrant color to your plate.
4. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in creamy Caesar dressing, topped with crunchy croutons and shaved Parmesan cheese, balances out the richness of the meatballs with its refreshing tanginess.
5. Italian Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables offers a variety of flavors and textures that complement the robustness of the spaghetti and meatballs.

With these delectable accompaniments, every bite of your Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs becomes a culinary masterpiece that will delight your taste buds and satisfy your cravings!

Equipment Needed to make Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs

Before diving into the delicious world of homemade spaghetti and meatballs, let’s gather all the essential equipment you’ll need to make this scrumptious dish come to life!

1. Large Mixing Bowl: To combine the ingredients for the meatballs and ensure they’re well mixed.
2. Deep Skillet or Dutch Oven: Ideal for sautéing the meatballs until they’re perfectly browned and cooking the marinara sauce to perfection.
3. Fork: For mashing the bread pieces with water to create soft breadcrumbs for the meatballs.
4. Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping onions, mincing garlic, and any other vegetable preparation needed.
5. Measuring Cups and Spoons: To accurately measure out ingredients like water, flour, and spices for both the meatballs and the sauce.
6. Cooking Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the sauce and meatballs while they simmer to ensure even cooking.
7. Deep Pot: For cooking the spaghetti until it’s al dente and ready to be combined with the meatballs and sauce.

With these essential pieces of equipment at your disposal, you’re all set to dive into the delightful process of creating your own homemade spaghetti and meatballs masterpiece. Let’s get cooking!

Delicious Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

Get ready to wow your family and friends with this incredibly tasty Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe! Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself to a comforting meal, these juicy Italian meatballs smothered in homemade marinara sauce are sure to be a hit. Plus, with our easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll have this classic Italian dish on the table in no time!

Ingredients:

• Meatballs (makes 22-23 meatballs):
  • 3 slices white bread (crusts removed), diced or torn to pieces
  • 2/3 cup cold water
  • 1 lb lean ground beef (7%-15% fat)
  • 1 lb Sweet Ground Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese, plus more to serve
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 large egg
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, to dredge meatballs
  • 3 Tbsp Light olive oil to saute, or use vegetable oil
• Sauce:
  • 1 medium yellow onion (1 cup chopped)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 56 oz crushed tomatoes (from 2 – 28 oz cans)
  • 2 bay leaves (optional)
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • 2 Tbsp basil, finely minced*
• Other Ingredients:
  • 1 lb spaghetti

Instructions:

1. Make the Best Italian Meatballs:
   • Combine bread pieces with 2/3 cup water and set aside for 5 minutes, then mash with a fork.
   • In a large mixing bowl, add ground beef, Italian sausage, parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, pepper, egg, and mashed bread crumbs. Mix until well combined.
   • Form into 1 1/2″ meatballs and dredge/roll in flour, dusting off excess.
   • Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat with oil. Add meatballs in batches and sauté until browned on all sides (about 6 minutes total). Remove and set aside.
2. Make Easy Marinara Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion until soft and golden (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and stir for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
   • Stir in crushed tomatoes and bay leaves. Bring to a light boil.
   • Add meatballs back into the pan with tomato sauce, partially cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, turning the meatballs occasionally.
   • Five minutes before sauce is done, stir in chopped fresh basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Make Spaghetti and Meatballs:
   • Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and return to the pot.
   • Pour sauce and meatballs over spaghetti and toss gently to combine.
   • Serve hot, garnished with parmesan cheese and fresh basil.

There you have it – a foolproof recipe for homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs that’s sure to become a family favorite! With tender, flavorful meatballs and a rich marinara sauce, this classic Italian dish is perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and prepare to be amazed by the delicious results!

Tips to make the perfect Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs

Cooking up the perfect batch of Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs is easier than you might think! With a few simple tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious Italian-inspired meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Start with fresh, high-quality ingredients like lean ground beef, sweet Italian sausage, and ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
2. Soak Bread for Tender Meatballs: To ensure your meatballs turn out tender and juicy, soak the bread pieces in water before mixing them into the meat mixture. This helps keep the meatballs moist during cooking.
3. Don’t Overwork the Meat Mixture: When combining the ingredients for the meatballs, mix them together gently just until everything is evenly distributed. Overworking the mixture can result in tough meatballs.
4. Dredge Meatballs in Flour: Before sautéing the meatballs, dredge them lightly in flour. This helps create a crispy exterior and prevents them from falling apart while cooking.
5. Simmer Meatballs in Sauce: Once the meatballs are browned, simmer them in the marinara sauce for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and ensures the meatballs are fully cooked through.
6. Cook Spaghetti Al Dente: Cook the spaghetti just until it’s al dente, or slightly firm to the bite. This helps prevent it from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce and meatballs.

By following these simple tips, you’ll be well-equipped to create the perfect batch of Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs every time. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress your family and friends with this classic Italian dish!

How to store and reheat Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs

Wondering what to do with any leftovers from your delicious Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Follow these simple steps to store and reheat your meal for a tasty encore.

1. Storing Leftovers: Allow any leftover spaghetti and meatballs to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. Reheating in the Microwave: Place desired portion of spaghetti and meatballs in a microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Microwave on high in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
3. Reheating on the Stove: For a stovetop method, transfer spaghetti and meatballs to a saucepan. Add a splash of water or extra marinara sauce to prevent sticking. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed to your liking.
4. Reheating in the Oven: To reheat larger portions, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place spaghetti and meatballs in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
5. Enjoying Leftovers: Once reheated, serve your leftover spaghetti and meatballs hot and enjoy every delicious bite!

With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs for days to come, without sacrificing any of the flavor or texture. So go ahead, make a big batch and savor the deliciousness whenever hunger strikes!

Notes for Newbies

Welcome, new cooks and bakers! If you’re just starting out on your culinary journey, Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs is a fantastic recipe to begin with. Follow these beginner-friendly notes to make your cooking experience smooth and successful.

1. Use Pre-Cut Ingredients: If chopping onions and garlic feels daunting, look for pre-cut options at the grocery store to save time and effort.
2. Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to ask a family member or friend for assistance if you’re unsure about any step of the recipe. Cooking together can be fun and educational!
3. Start Small: If you’re not used to cooking with ground meat, try making a smaller batch of meatballs first to practice your shaping and cooking technique.
4. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your meatballs are cooked through. They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
5. Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in your meatball mixture to suit your taste preferences.
6. Be Patient: Allow the meatballs to simmer in the sauce for the full 30 minutes to ensure they’re tender and flavorful.
7. Practice Pasta Perfection: Cooking pasta may seem simple, but achieving the perfect al dente texture takes practice. Follow the package instructions and taste-test the pasta frequently to avoid overcooking.

Remember, every great cook and baker started as a newbie at some point. Embrace the learning process, have fun in the kitchen, and enjoy the delicious results of your Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs!

Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe. Tender Italian meatballs, made with a combination of lean ground beef and sweet Italian sausage, are simmered in a rich marinara sauce and served over perfectly cooked spaghetti. This classic dish is sure to become a family favorite!

5 from 15 votes

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Course: Entree, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: Spaghetti and Meatballs, Spaghetti Meatballs

Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour 5 minutes minutes

Servings: 8

Calories: 696kcal

Author: Appetizers and Entrées

Ingredients

Meatballs (makes 22-23 meatballs):

• 1 lb lean ground beef (7%-15% fat)
• 1 lb Sweet Ground Italian sausage, casings removed
• 3 slices slices white bread (crusts removed), diced or torn to pieces
• ⅔ cup cold water
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese, plus more to serve
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp sea salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 large egg
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour, to dredge meatballs
• 3 tvsp olive oil to saute, or use vegetable oil

Sauce:

• 1 medium yellow onion (1 cup chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 56 oz crushed tomatoes (from 2 – 28 oz cans)
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp basil, finely minced
• 2 bay leaves (optional)

Other Ingredients:

• 1 lb spaghetti

Instructions

Make the Best Italian Meatballs:

• Combine bread pieces with 2/3 cup water and set aside for 5 minutes, then mash with a fork.
• In a large mixing bowl, add ground beef, Italian sausage, parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, pepper, egg, and mashed bread crumbs. Mix until well combined.
• Form into 1 1/2" meatballs and dredge/roll in flour, dusting off excess.
• Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat with oil. Add meatballs in batches and sauté until browned on all sides (about 6 minutes total). Remove and set aside.

Make Easy Marinara Sauce:

• In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion until soft and golden (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and stir for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Stir in crushed tomatoes and bay leaves. Bring to a light boil.
• Add meatballs back into the pan with tomato sauce, partially cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, turning the meatballs occasionally.
• Five minutes before sauce is done, stir in chopped fresh basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Make Spaghetti and Meatballs:

• Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and return to the pot.
• Pour sauce and meatballs over spaghetti and toss gently to combine.
• Serve hot, garnished with parmesan cheese and fresh basil.

Comment

Notes

• To ensure your meatballs turn out tender and juicy, soak the bread pieces in water before mixing them into the meat mixture. This helps keep the meatballs moist during cooking.
• When combining the ingredients for the meatballs, mix them together gently just until everything is evenly distributed. Overworking the mixture can result in tough meatballs.

Nutrition

Calories: 696kcal | Carbohydrates: 73g | Protein: 35g | Fat: 29g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Cholesterol: 101mg | Sodium: 1112mg | Potassium: 1110mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 520IU | Vitamin C: 21.5mg | Calcium: 167mg | Iron: 6.4mg

HAVE YOU TRIED MAKING THIS Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe?

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