Description
Classic spaghetti served with tender homemade meatballs simmered in rich tomato sauce. A comforting family favorite that is simple and satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce and Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Spaghetti: Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Make Meatball Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough meatballs.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into small, evenly sized meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Brown Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides, about 5–7 minutes, carefully turning to ensure even color without breaking them.
- Simmer in Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce over the browned meatballs in the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for 15–20 minutes until cooked through and flavors meld.
- Serve: Plate the cooked spaghetti and spoon the meatballs and tomato sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Do not overmix the meat mixture to keep meatballs tender and juicy.
- For a healthier alternative, bake meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes instead of pan-frying.
- Add red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or sauce if you prefer a spicier dish.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for best flavor.
- Let meatballs rest a few minutes after cooking for juices to redistribute.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
