Imagine gathering your family around a charming table adorned with a checkered tablecloth, the room filled with the scent of a rich marinara sauce bubbling gently on the stove. This Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe isn’t just a meal—it’s a cherished occasion, a time where creativity and tradition unite to create something truly special. Perfect for a Sunday dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, this dish brings everyone together in the heart of your home.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 4
- Skill Level: Intermediate
Ingredients
- 1 lb spaghetti
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about the size of a golf ball. Set aside on a plate.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 7-8 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the red wine (if using) and let it simmer until reduced by half.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
- Gently place the meatballs back into the skillet, spooning some sauce over them. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is flavorful.
- Serve the meatballs and marinara sauce over the cooked spaghetti. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Helpful Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and freeze them. Simply reheat in the marinara sauce when ready to serve.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the meatballs with your favorite vegetarian meatballs or roasted vegetables for a delightful twist.
- Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the heat level of your sauce.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers, store the spaghetti and meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if necessary.
Pairings
This classic dish pairs beautifully with a fresh Caesar salad and a glass of Chianti. For a finishing touch, serve with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up all that delicious marinara sauce.
I hope this Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe brings as much joy to your home as it does to mine. Don’t forget to share your wonderful creations with us using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. Visit our website at www.zynahz.com to leave feedback and see more incredible recipes. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and follow Zynahz on social media for daily inspiration. Happy cooking!
