Introduction
Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs is one of those timeless comfort meals that brings everyone to the table. Tender, juicy homemade meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce and served over perfectly cooked spaghetti create a dinner that’s hearty, satisfying, and full of flavor. Whether you’re searching for easy dinner recipes, quick weeknight meals, or family dinner ideas, this restaurant-style classic is guaranteed to become a favorite in your home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in about 1 hour.
- Tender homemade meatballs with rich tomato sauce.
- Simple ingredients available at any grocery store.
- Perfect for family dinners, holidays, and special occasions.
- Great for meal prep and freezer-friendly.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- ½ lb (225 g) ground pork
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons whole milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning)
For the Tomato Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 (14 oz / 400 g) cans crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
For the Pasta
- 1 lb (450 g) spaghetti
- Salt, for the pasta water
For Serving
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and milk.
Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
Shape the mixture into 18–20 evenly sized meatballs.
2. Brown the Meatballs
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Brown the meatballs for 2–3 minutes on each side. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this stage.
Transfer them to a plate.
3. Make the Tomato Sauce
In the same skillet, heat the olive oil.
Add the diced onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then stir in the Italian se