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Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs

A close-up of a bowl of spaghetti and meatballs, with a fork lifting a juicy meatball.
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A comforting and classic spaghetti and meatballs recipe with tender meatballs and a rich marinara sauce. Perfect for a family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 1/2 lb ground veal
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 (28 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lb spaghetti
  • Fresh basil for garnish
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 5 minutes.
  2. Add ground beef, pork, veal, eggs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
  3. Form the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides. You may need to do this in batches. Remove meatballs and set aside.
  5. Add chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  6. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
  7. Return the meatballs to the pot. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  8. About 15 minutes before serving, cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain.
  9. Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and meatballs. Toss gently to coat.
  10. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • For extra tender meatballs, ensure you do not overmix the meatball mixture.
  • Browning the meatballs before simmering adds depth of flavor.
  • Finishing the pasta in the sauce helps it absorb flavor and cling better.
  • Consider this a great option for meal planning, similar to what you might find with some meal delivery services.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipestokeep.com/spaghetti-and-meatballs/