spaghetti meatball sauce recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best spaghetti meatball sauce recipe

I have always been a fan of hearty, comforting dishes that warm the soul. One of my favorite recipes is spaghetti meatball sauce, a classic Italian-American dish that never fails to please.

The combination of tender meatballs, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti is a match made in heaven. My family loves it when I make this recipe, and it’s always a hit at family gatherings.

I’ve experimented with various versions over the years, but this one remains my go-to for its simplicity and flavor. When I’m short on time, I love that I can whip up this meal in under an hour.

It’s also incredibly versatile – you can easily customize it to suit your tastes by adding different herbs or spices. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make ahead and reheat, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Spaghetti with Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

4.9 from 617 votes

This is a classic Italian dish featuring hearty meatballs and a rich tomato sauce served over spaghetti. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 5 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 lb ground beef
1/2 lb ground pork
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

2 cans (14 oz each) crushed tomatoes
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
1 large onion (finely chopped)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tsp salt
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp sugar (optional)
1 lb spaghetti

For Serving

grated Parmesan cheese
fresh basil (chopped)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 400°F.
2In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
3Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
5Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through.
7Remove from the oven and set aside.
8While the meatballs are baking, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
9Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
10Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
11Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, oregano, basil, black pepper, and sugar (if using).
12Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
13The sauce will thicken and the flavors will meld together.
14Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce.
15Stir gently to combine.
16Simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the meatballs to absorb some of the sauce flavors.
17Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente.
18Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
19Divide the cooked spaghetti among plates.
20Spoon the meatballs and sauce over the spaghetti.
21Top with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil.
22Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Spaghetti with Meatballs in Tomato Sauce.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Large skillet
Large pot
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute ground turkey for a healthier option.

This spaghetti meatball sauce recipe is a staple in our household, and I’m confident it will be in yours too once you give it a try.

Not only is it ridiculously easy to make ahead and reheat, but it’s also packed with nutrients thanks to the fresh vegetables and lean protein sources used throughout the dish.

When reheating leftovers, consider adding some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra burst of flavor.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Spaghetti with Meatballs in Tomato Sauce

1. What type of meat should I use for the meatballs?

You can use either beef or pork for the meatballs, but I prefer a combination of both for added flavor and texture. Make sure to use high-quality ground meat and not too much filler so that your meatballs turn out nice and dense.

2. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day or freeze them for up to three months. When you’re ready to cook them, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or bake them straight from the freezer.

3. How do I prevent the meatballs from becoming too dry?

To prevent the meatballs from becoming too dry, make sure not to overmix them when forming them into balls. Also, don’t overcrowd your baking sheet when baking them – leave enough space between each meatball so that they can cook evenly.

4. Can I use store-bought marinara sauce instead of making my own?

While store-bought marinara sauce is convenient, it can’t replicate the depth of flavor you get from making your own sauce from scratch using fresh tomatoes and herbs. However, if you’re short on time, you can use store-bought as a substitute.

5. How do I reheat leftover spaghetti without drying it out?

To reheat leftover spaghetti without drying it out, add a tablespoon or two of water to the dish along with some grated Parmesan cheese before reheating it in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Similar Posts