Name: Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground Beef; 0.5 cup Italian Seasoned Bread Crumbs; 0.5 tsp Sea Salt; 0.25 tsp Black Pepper; 0.5 cup All-Purpose Flour; 1 each Egg; 3 Tbsp Olive Oil; 1.625 lb Pasta Sauce; 8 oz Spaghetti; 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese

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The Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs isn’t just a dish; it’s a nostalgic reminder of cozy family dinners. I still remember the first time I tasted a plate filled with tender meatballs nestled in rich, savory sauce, paired with perfectly al dente spaghetti. It was pure comfort on a plate, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. Over the years, this dish has become a staple in my kitchen—perfect for gatherings or a satisfying weeknight meal. Each bite evokes warmth and joy, making it an unforgettable experience for anyone who tries it.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
600 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
25 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Frying Pan, Oven, Large Pot, Saucepan, Grater

What You’ll Enjoy About This Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs

1. It’s About Tradition

There’s something incredibly comforting about the Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs. This recipe carries with it a tradition that spans generations. When I make this dish, I think of my grandmother, who taught me the importance of using fresh ingredients and cooking from the heart. Each meatball is lovingly crafted, just like she did. It’s a fantastic way to connect with family history while creating new memories around the dinner table.

2. Ultimate Flavor Combo

The blend of flavors in this dish is unmatched. The savory ground beef, aromatic Italian seasoned bread crumbs, and the zest of Parmesan cheese come together beautifully. The addition of spaghetti sauce gives it a rich, comforting depth, and each bite is an explosion of flavor that truly satisfies the soul.

3. Versatile Recipe

You can easily adapt the Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or enjoying a cozy evening in, this dish fits perfectly. Want to spice things up? Add some herbs or a dash of chili flakes for heat. It’s also a great meal prep option—just make a big batch, and you’ll have delicious meals ready for the week!

4. Perfect for Everyone

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser! Kids love the meatballs, and adults appreciate the rich sauce and pasta. I’ve served it to friends of varying tastes, and it always garners rave reviews. It’s also a fantastic way to introduce new flavors to picky eaters without overwhelming them.

5. Easy to Make

Despite its incredible taste, the Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs is surprisingly simple to make. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, anyone can whip this up at home. It’s an excellent way to build confidence in the kitchen, especially for novice cooks.

6. A Family Project

Making this dish can be a fun family activity. I love including my kids in the process of shaping the meatballs. It’s a fantastic way to spend time together, and they enjoy being part of the cooking adventure. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to teach them about healthy eating and the joy of cooking.

Recipe Ingredients for Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs

The ingredients for the Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Each component plays a vital role in bringing this dish to life. The stars of the show, our ground beef and Italian seasoned bread crumbs, form the foundation of the meatballs, while the spaghetti sauce and spaghetti elevate the overall experience. Together, they create a meal that is hearty, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion.

1 lb ground beef: This is the base of our meatballs, providing richness and flavor.
1/2 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs: These add texture and binding to the meatballs.
1/2 tsp sea salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a bit of spice without overpowering the meatballs.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Used for dredging the meatballs to ensure a deliciously crisp exterior.
1 egg: Acts as a binder for the meatball mixture, helping it hold together.
3 Tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and prevents sticking during cooking.
1 lb 10 oz pasta sauce: The base for our sauce, bringing flavor and moisture to the meatballs.
8 oz spaghetti: The perfect partner for our meatballs, soaked in that delicious sauce.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: A must-have garnish that adds a salty, nutty finish.

Making Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs

Preparing the Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Follow these detailed steps to create this beloved dish. I’ll guide you through the cooking process, ensuring your meatballs are tender, flavorful, and ready to impress!

Start by combining ground beef, Italian seasoned bread crumbs, sea salt, black pepper, and egg in a large mixing bowl. Use your hands to gently mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this will make the meatballs tough. You want a light, fluffy texture.
Once mixed, shape the mixture into approximately 12 meatballs. Use your hands to grab a small amount of the mixture and roll it gently into a ball, making sure not to pack it too tightly. This helps ensure your meatballs will be soft and juicy after cooking.
Next, dredge or roll each meatball in all-purpose flour, ensuring to dust off any excess. This step helps create a nice crust when sautéing and adds a little extra flavor to the dish.
Now, heat a deep, large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat and add olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs to the pan. It’s essential not to overcrowd the pan, so cook them in batches if necessary.
Sauté the meatballs until they are browned on all sides. This should take about 6 minutes total. You want them to have a lovely golden color, which adds depth to the dish. Remember, they don’t need to be fully cooked through at this point.
After browning, remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside. It’s okay if they look slightly undercooked at this stage, as they will finish cooking in the sauce.
In the same skillet, add the pasta sauce and bring it to a gentle simmer. This allows the flavors to meld together, creating a savory base for your meatballs.
Once the sauce is simmering, gently add the browned meatballs back into the skillet. Cover the pan and let them simmer in the sauce for about 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through. This step is crucial as it infuses the meatballs with the delicious flavors of the sauce.
While the meatballs simmer, bring a separate pot of water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti, reserving a bit of the pasta water to add to the sauce if needed.
To serve, plate the hot spaghetti and top it generously with the simmered meatballs and sauce. Finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for that extra touch. Enjoy every bite of your homemade Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs!

Things Worth Knowing

Meatball texture: Be careful not to overmix your meatball mixture. Gentle handling ensures they remain tender and juicy.
Proper browning: When browning the meatballs, focus on achieving a nice color without cooking them through. This retains moisture.
Simmering for flavor: Letting the meatballs simmer in the sauce allows them to absorb all those wonderful flavors.
Cooking pasta: Ensure to cook your spaghetti until al dente for the best texture, which will hold up well with the sauce.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

If you’re looking to make the Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs your own, consider these adaptation tips:

Storage: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Freezing: You can freeze cooked meatballs and sauce separately for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Pairing: Serve the dish with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.
Spice it up: Incorporate spices like red pepper flakes into the sauce for an extra kick.
Meat alternatives: Substitute ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative for a healthier version.

Perfect Matches for Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs

When it comes to serving the Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs, there are numerous delicious options to consider:

Garlic bread: A classic pairing that complements the rich flavors of the meatballs and sauce perfectly.
Mixed green salad: A light, fresh salad helps balance the hearty dish, providing a crisp texture.
Wine pairings: While avoiding certain ingredients, a simple sparkling water or light soda can refresh the palate.
Seasonal veggies: Roasted vegetables make a colorful and nutritious side to accompany your meal.
Family dinners: This dish is perfect for gatherings, where everyone can enjoy a hearty helping.
Comfort food nights: Whether it’s a rainy day or just a cozy evening in, this dish is the ultimate comfort food.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can definitely substitute ground turkey for the ground beef in the Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe. Turkey is a leaner option, which can lead to a lighter meatball. Just be sure to season it well since turkey can have a milder flavor. The cooking technique remains the same, ensuring that your meatballs stay deliciously moist.

When it comes to sides for the Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs, there are plenty of options! Garlic bread is a classic choice, as it complements the rich tomato sauce beautifully. A fresh mixed green salad is another great addition, providing a refreshing contrast. You could also consider serving roasted vegetables for a healthy, colorful plate that rounds out the meal.

Storing leftovers of the Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs is easy! Simply place the remaining meatballs and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to three days. If you’re looking to keep them longer, you can freeze the meatballs and sauce separately. Just ensure to thaw them in the fridge before reheating for the best results.

The meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. You can check this using a meat thermometer. They should also be browned on the outside and firm to the touch. If you cut one open, it should be cooked through with no pink remaining. Simmering them in the sauce will also ensure they are fully cooked and flavorful.

Conclusion

The Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs combines comforting flavors and textures, making it a dish that everyone loves. It’s easy to make, adaptable, and perfect for any occasion. I’m sure once you try it, it will become a staple in your home as it has in mine. So gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking—this is one meal you won’t want to miss!