Nothing beats the comforting embrace of a plate of spaghetti and meatballs, topped with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This classic dish evokes feelings of home and warmth, making it a staple in many households. Today, I’m excited to share with you my recipe for what I confidently call the Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs. With tender, flavorful meatballs nestled atop perfectly cooked spaghetti, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home too.
Why Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs is Worth Your Time
Making spaghetti and meatballs from scratch may seem like a daunting task, but the flavors that develop during the cooking process are worth every minute spent in the kitchen. The combination of savory ground beef, aromatic spices, and rich pasta sauce creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also incredibly delicious. Plus, it’s the perfect dish for family gatherings or cozy nights in. When you serve this dish, you’re not just offering a meal; you’re sharing love on a plate.
The Essentials
To create the Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb 10 oz pasta sauce
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
These simple ingredients come together to create a rich and satisfying dish that your family will love.
Gear Checklist
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following gear on hand:
- Large mixing bowl – for combining the meatball ingredients.
- Large skillet – for browning the meatballs.
- Large pot – for boiling the spaghetti.
- Slotted spoon – for removing the meatballs from the skillet.
- Cooking thermometer – to ensure meatballs are cooked through.
Having the right tools makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Build Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian seasoned bread crumbs, sea salt, black pepper, all-purpose flour, and egg. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough meatballs.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper as you go.
Step 3: Brown the Meatballs
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes total. Once browned, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Simmer the Meatballs
In the same skillet, pour in the pasta sauce. Bring it to a simmer and then gently add the browned meatballs back into the sauce. Cover and let them simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatballs to cook through.
Step 5: Cook the Spaghetti
While the meatballs are simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 6: Serve It Up
To serve, place a generous portion of spaghetti on a plate, top with several meatballs, and spoon over some of the delicious pasta sauce. Finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for that extra touch of flavor.
Better-for-You Options
If you’re looking for ways to lighten up this classic dish, consider the following options:
- Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative.
- Use whole wheat spaghetti for added fiber and nutrition.
- Replace regular pasta sauce with a homemade sauce that includes fresh vegetables.
- Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative to make it suitable for various dietary preferences.
These adjustments can help you enjoy the Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs without sacrificing flavor.
What Not to Do
When making the Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs, keep in mind a few common pitfalls:
- Don’t skip browning the meatballs. This step adds a depth of flavor that you don’t want to miss!
- Avoid overcooking the spaghetti. It should be al dente for the best texture.
- Don’t rush the simmering process. Allowing the meatballs to simmer in the sauce is essential for flavor development.
- Be careful with salt. Since the pasta sauce and bread crumbs can already contain salt, taste as you go.
These tips will help ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
Storage Pro Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely, but just in case), here are some storage tips:
Allow the spaghetti and meatballs to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or extra sauce to keep the dish moist.
Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs Q&A
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze uncooked meatballs and bake them directly from frozen.
What type of pasta sauce should I use?
You can use your favorite store-bought pasta sauce or make your own from scratch. A rich marinara or a savory meat sauce works wonderfully with spaghetti and meatballs.
How do I know when the meatballs are done?
The internal temperature of the meatballs should reach 160°F (71°C) to be considered fully cooked. A cooking thermometer is the best way to ensure they are safe to eat.
Can I substitute the beef with something else?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative if you prefer a meatless option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
The Last Word
The Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors, tradition, and the joy of sharing food with loved ones. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy night in or serving it at a family gathering, this dish is bound to impress. So roll up your sleeves, gather the ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a plate of spaghetti and meatballs that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Happy cooking!
Best Ever Spaghetti and Meatballs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian seasoned bread crumbs, sea salt, black pepper, all-purpose flour, and egg. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
- Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes total. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, pour in the pasta sauce and bring it to a simmer. Gently add the browned meatballs back into the sauce, cover, and let them simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- While the meatballs are simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- To serve, place a generous portion of spaghetti on a plate, top with several meatballs, and spoon over some pasta sauce. Finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
- Can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Add a splash of water or extra sauce when reheating to keep moist.
