If you’re searching for the ultimate crowd-pleaser that’s as comforting as it is simple, this Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe truly delivers. Imagine perfectly seasoned, tender meatballs simmered in a bright tomato sauce, all married together with a tangle of al dente spaghetti—it’s the stuff of weeknight legend. Whether you’re cooking for a hungry family or just warming up a cozy evening for one or two, you’ll find this Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe is so straightforward you’ll want it to become your pasta night staple.

Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t need anything fancy to whip up this Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe; all the ingredients are kitchen classics you might already have on hand. Each one adds its own touch—think juicy meatballs, flavorful sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta.

Spaghetti: The iconic pasta base, best when cooked just until al dente for a bit of bite.
Olive oil: Builds flavor in the sauce and brings a luscious, silky texture.
Finely chopped onion: Adds a sweet, mellow base flavor to the sauce.
Garlic (minced): The aromatic backbone of classic Italian-American sauce.
Crushed tomatoes: The star of the sauce, offering brightness and body.
Dried basil: For that warm, herby aroma that just says “Italian.”
Dried oregano: Provides earthy complexity and depth to the sauce.
Red pepper flakes (optional): Add subtle heat—totally up to your spice preference.
Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
Ground beef: Forms the hearty, juicy base of our meatballs.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Melds into the meatballs with a savory, umami punch.
Breadcrumbs: Give the meatballs their signature tender, light texture.
Large egg: Binds the meatballs so they stay together and don’t fall apart.
Chopped parsley: Freshness and a pop of color for both meatballs and garnishing.
Milk: Keeps the meatballs moist and succulent from the inside out.

How to Make Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add the spaghetti. Stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick together, and cook until al dente—usually about 9–10 minutes. Drain and set aside, keeping a splash of the pasta water handy just in case you want to loosen your sauce later.

Step 2: Make the Sauce Base

Start by heating olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and let it cook for just a minute, releasing its rich aroma but not letting it brown.

Step 3: Simmer the Tomato Sauce

Tip in the crushed tomatoes, followed by dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if you like things spicy), and a good pinch each of salt and pepper. Reduce the heat and let everything mingle on a gentle simmer—it’s going to turn into a velvety, flavor-packed bath for your meatballs.

Step 4: Prepare and Shape the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, chopped parsley, milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a fork—just enough to bring everything together. Over-mixing can make your meatballs tough, so handle with care! Form into 1-inch balls, aiming for bite-sized and uniform shapes.

Step 5: Cook the Meatballs in the Sauce

Nestle the uncooked meatballs into your simmering tomato sauce, gently so they don’t break apart. Cover and cook for 20–25 minutes, turning them occasionally. The meatballs will absorb tons of saucy flavor while staying gloriously tender on the inside.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Once the meatballs are fully cooked and the sauce is thickened, it’s time to pile everything over your cooked spaghetti. Use tongs or a big spoon to twirl the pasta onto plates, top generously with meatballs and extra sauce, and finish with a shower of more Parmesan and parsley if you’re feeling fancy.

How to Serve Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

Garnishes

Freshly grated Parmesan, chopped basil or parsley, and a crack of black pepper instantly lift the dish from everyday to extraordinary. If you love a little extra zing, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil to finish.

Side Dishes

This classic pasta pairs beautifully with warm, buttery garlic bread and a crisp Caesar or green salad. For a cozier touch, offer a bowl of roasted veggies or a side of sautéed greens—it’s all about rounding out the meal with color and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe family-style in a big bowl at the center of the table for that festive “sharing” vibe. For parties, skewer individual meatballs with a frill toothpick and serve them atop mini nests of spaghetti for a playful twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftovers completely before storing. Place the spaghetti and meatballs in a sealed container and refrigerate for up to 4 days—the flavors actually get better as they mingle together.

Freezing

This Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe is freezer-friendly! Tuck cooled meatballs and sauce (skip the pasta) into a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and serving fresh pasta alongside.

Reheating

For best results, reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. Microwave in bursts works, too—just cover and stir occasionally for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! Feel free to use ground turkey, chicken, pork, or a mix of meats for a different flavor or texture in your meatballs. A beef and pork blend makes them extra juicy.

Do I have to brown the meatballs first?

You don’t have to, but searing the meatballs in a hot pan before adding them to the sauce brings a deeper, richer flavor thanks to some caramelization. If you’re short on time or want to keep clean-up minimal, you can simply simmer them right in the sauce and they’ll still be delicious.

Can I make the Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe gluten-free?

Definitely! Swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free bread crumbs and use gluten-free spaghetti—no one will taste the difference but everyone can enjoy the meal.

How do I keep the meatballs from falling apart?

Don’t skip the egg and breadcrumbs; they’re the binders that hold everything together. Also, avoid over-mixing the meatball mixture, which can make it tough and crumbly.

Is this Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe good for meal prep?

Yes! Both the sauce and meatballs can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer. Boil fresh pasta when it’s time to eat, and you have a homemade classic ready in minutes.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never tried making your own Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe, now is the time to roll up your sleeves and enjoy the process. It’s hearty, straightforward, and sure to please everyone at the table. So set out some plates and let this timeless comfort food shine—once you try it, you might just make it a ritual!

Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 6 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This easy spaghetti and meatballs recipe is a classic comfort food dish that is perfect for a family dinner. Tender meatballs simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce served over al dente spaghetti, garnished with Parmesan and parsley.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
2 tablespoons milk
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

12 oz spaghetti

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook the spaghetti: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook spaghetti until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté onion and garlic. Add crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer.
Prepare the Meatballs: Mix beef, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, milk, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
Cook the Meatballs: Place meatballs in the sauce, cover, and cook for 20–25 minutes, turning occasionally.
Serve: Serve meatballs and sauce over cooked spaghetti, garnish with Parmesan and parsley.