This Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe delivers tender, juicy homemade meatballs simmered in a rich, flavorful marinara sauce, served over perfectly cooked spaghetti. A true classic Italian comfort food, this dish is easy to make and better than any restaurant version. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this hearty meal is always a crowd-pleaser! 🍝🧆✨

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• ½ cup (50 g) breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• ¼ cup (60 ml) milk
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

For the Marinara Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz / 800 g) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can tomato sauce
• 1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ cup (60 ml) water or broth
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)

For the Spaghetti:

• 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti pasta
• 1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)

Directions

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

1. In a large bowl, mix breadcrumbs and milk and let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add ground beef, egg, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Mix gently until combined.
3. Roll the mixture into 1 ½-inch meatballs (about 12-15 meatballs).
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the meatballs for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Marinara Sauce

5. In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
6. Sauté the onion for 3 minutes until soft, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
7. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
8. Add water or broth and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9. Add the browned meatballs to the sauce and let simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti

10. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
11. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

12. Toss the spaghetti with a little marinara sauce.
13. Plate the spaghetti and top with meatballs and extra sauce.
14. Garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh basil.

Notes

• Make it ahead: The sauce and meatballs can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked meatballs and sauce for up to 3 months.
• For a lighter option: Use ground turkey instead of beef.

Why This Recipe Works

The breadcrumb and milk mixture keeps the meatballs moist and tender, while the homemade marinara sauce adds deep, rich flavor. Cooking the meatballs in the sauce ensures they stay juicy and flavorful.

Conclusion

This Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe is simple, delicious, and comforting—perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. The combination of tender meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti makes this a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a classic homemade Italian dish! 🍝🧆✨