Spaghetti and meatballs is the definition of hearty comfort food. With tender, juicy meatballs, a rich slow-simmered tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, this dish is a timeless family favorite.
This homemade version is far better than store-bought or restaurant pasta because the flavors develop slowly as the meatballs simmer in the sauce, creating a deep, savory taste in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Juicy, tender homemade meatballs
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Rich and flavorful tomato sauce
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Perfect for family dinners
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Great for meal prep and leftovers
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Classic Italian comfort food
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
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1 pound ground beef (or beef and pork mix)
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½ cup breadcrumbs
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¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
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1 egg
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons chopped parsley
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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2 tablespoons milk
For the Sauce
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
For Serving
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12 ounces spaghetti
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Extra parmesan cheese
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Fresh basil for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Meatball Mixture
In a large bowl, combine:
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Ground meat
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Breadcrumbs
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Parmesan
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Egg
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Garlic
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Parsley
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Salt and pepper
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Milk
Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
2. Shape the Meatballs
Form into 1½-inch meatballs and place on a tray.
You can brown them in a skillet for extra flavor or place them directly into the sauce for a softer texture.
3. Prepare the Tomato Sauce
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Sauté onion for 4–5 minutes until soft.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and sugar.
4. Simmer the Meatballs
Add the meatballs to the sauce.
Cover and simmer on low heat for 30–40 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
5. Cook the Spaghetti
Boil salted water and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
6. Assemble and Serve
Serve spaghetti topped with meatballs and sauce.
Finish with grated parmesan and fresh basil.
Tips for the Best Spaghetti and Meatballs
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Use a mix of beef and pork for juicier meatballs
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Add milk to keep meatballs tender
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Simmer sauce low and slow for deeper flavor
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Salt the pasta water generously
Flavor Variations
Cheesy Meatballs
Add mozzarella cubes inside each meatball.
Spicy Arrabbiata Style
Add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Turkey Meatballs
Use ground turkey for a lighter version.
Garlic Lover’s Version
Double the garlic in both meatballs and sauce.
What to Serve With Spaghetti and Meatballs
This dish pairs perfectly with:
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Garlic bread
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Caesar salad
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Roasted vegetables
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Caprese salad
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freeze: Meatballs and sauce freeze well for up to 3 months
Reheat: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of water
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prepare meatballs and sauce a day in advance.
The flavor actually improves overnight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes before adding to the sauce.
How do I keep meatballs from falling apart?
Use egg and breadcrumbs as binders and avoid overmixing.
Can I use jarred sauce?
Yes, but homemade sauce gives the best flavor.
Final Thoughts
This classic spaghetti and meatballs recipe is hearty, comforting, and full of authentic Italian flavor. With tender meatballs and a rich tomato sauce, it’s the perfect meal for family dinners, meal prep, or special occasions.