Tasty Italian Spaghetti and Meatballs

Tasty Italian Spaghetti and Meatballs

Juicy homemade meatballs simmered in rich tomato sauce, served over perfectly cooked spaghetti for a comforting, family-friendly Italian classic.

spaghetti and meatballs - recipefeasts staff
recipefeasts staff

Tasty Italian Spaghetti and Meatballs

Juicy homemade meatballs simmered in rich tomato sauce, served over perfectly cooked spaghetti for a comforting, family-friendly Italian classic.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian, Multiple Cuisines
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 400 g (14oz) spaghetti
  • 500 g (1lb) minced beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
For the sauce:
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 x 800 g (28oz) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of well-salted boiling water according to package instructions until cooked (but still firm when bitten). Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, mix breadcrumbs and milk; let soak for 1–2 minutes.
  3. Add minced beef, chopped onion, garlic, egg, Parmesan, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  4. Shape the mixture into medium-sized meatballs.
  5. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, then remove and set aside.
  6. In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  7. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, sugar (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  8. Return meatballs to the sauce, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until cooked through and tender.
  9. Serve meatballs and sauce over cooked spaghetti. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Optional Tips / Variations

  • Use a mix of beef and pork for extra-juicy meatballs.
  • Add a pinch of chilli flakes to the sauce for gentle heat.
  • Swap spaghetti for linguine or tagliatelle if preferred.
  • Make it lighter by baking the meatballs instead of frying.
  • Add fresh basil at the end for a brighter flavour.
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Filed Under: Meal Prep, Spaghetti and Meatballs
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