You know those dinners that instantly make you feel at home with the very first bite? That’s exactly what you get with this Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe. Juicy, tender meatballs simmered in a tangy marinara sauce, all nestled atop a bed of perfectly cooked spaghetti — it’s comfort food at its best. Whether you’re gathering the family around the table or looking to impress friends with a classic, crowd-pleasing dish, this recipe truly delivers big on flavor, minus any fuss. Let’s dive into what makes this weeknight staple so special!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe lies in the simple, quality ingredients that come together to create such rich flavor. Every item is essential — from the savory ground beef to the herbaceous parsley — and each adds something unique to the dish’s taste, texture, or color.
- Ground Beef: Opt for an 80/20 blend for juicy, flavorful meatballs that hold their shape beautifully.
- Breadcrumbs: These provide structure and keep the meatballs tender, never tough or dry.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharp, nutty undertones that infuse every bite with classic Italian flair.
- Egg: The essential binding agent, guaranteeing that your meatballs are cohesive and moist.
- Garlic (minced): Just two cloves bring an aromatic kick that makes the sauce and meat shine.
- Fresh Parsley (chopped): Brings freshness and vibrant color, elevating both the meatballs and the garnish.
- Salt: Enhances and balances all the savory notes throughout the dish.
- Black Pepper: A dash goes a long way in adding subtle warmth and depth to the meatballs.
- Olive Oil: For searing the meatballs to a golden perfection while contributing a hint of rich flavor.
- Marinara Sauce (jarred): Pick your favorite brand to create a luscious, tangy base that bathes the meatballs.
- Spaghetti: Choose high-quality pasta for best texture; cook just to al dente for the perfect bite.
- Salt for Pasta Water: Ensures that every strand of spaghetti is seasoned from the inside out.
- Extra Parmesan & Chopped Parsley (for garnish): These finishing touches add color and a final burst of flavor.
How to Make Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
Begin by gathering all your meatball ingredients into a large mixing bowl — the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Use clean hands or a fork to gently combine everything just until mixed. Take care not to overwork the mixture, as this keeps the meatballs light and tender.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
With your mixture ready, shape it into 1-inch balls. Try to keep each meatball the same size so they cook evenly. Arrange them on a plate or tray, ready for their turn in the skillet.
Step 3: Brown the Meatballs
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the meatballs, spacing them out so they have room to brown instead of steam. Turn them every couple of minutes, browning all sides for a total of 6 to 8 minutes. This step builds flavor and creates that irresistible crust.
Step 4: Simmer in Sauce
Pour the marinara sauce directly over the browned meatballs, gently shifting them in the skillet so they’re mostly submerged. Turn the heat down to low, cover, and let everything simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. The meatballs finish cooking as they soak up all the saucy goodness.
Step 5: Cook the Spaghetti
While your meatballs simmer, bring a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Drop in the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Don’t forget to reserve a splash of pasta water — it can help bring the sauce and spaghetti together at the end.
Step 6: Combine and Serve the Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
Drain the cooked spaghetti and transfer it to the skillet with the sauce and meatballs (or into a big serving bowl if you’d rather). Gently spoon the rich tomato sauce and meatballs over the pasta, then finish with a rain of extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Now it’s time to dig in!
How to Serve Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
Garnishes
The little details make this dish shine. For your Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe, shower the finished plate with extra grated Parmesan and a scattering of chopped parsley right before serving. If you like a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes is also delightful. These finishing touches add vibrant color and bold flavor that take your bowl from homey to restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
No pasta night is complete without something to round it out! Think a crisp green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette, warm garlic bread for sauce scooping, or tender roasted veggies. Each of these sides pairs perfectly with the hearty, savory notes of your main course, creating a meal that feels luxurious but is so easy to put together.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful by serving the Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe family-style in one big bowl, or individually twirled nests of spaghetti with a trio of meatballs on top for a more elegant touch. For kids (and the young at heart), try stacking mini meatball sliders on toasted rolls, topped with a spoonful of sauce and melty cheese, for a fun twist on tradition.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your leftovers tasting fresh, transfer everything (meatballs, sauce, and pasta) into airtight containers and refrigerate promptly. This Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe stays delicious for up to 4 days, and the flavors often deepen after a day in the fridge. Reheat only what you’ll eat for best texture and to keep the pasta from getting too soft.
Freezing
If you want to freeze for later, simply freeze the cooked (and cooled) meatballs in their sauce in a freezer-safe container or zip bag. Leave the spaghetti out — pasta is best made fresh, but you can freeze some if needed. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a speedy dinner any time you crave it.
Reheating
Warm your leftovers in a covered skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. If using a microwave, cover your portion and heat in short bursts, stirring gently between each. Either way, this Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe tastes nearly as good as the day you made it!
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work very well in this recipe for a lighter option. They’ll still soak up the marinara and offer delicious flavor, although the meatballs will be a bit softer and lighter in texture.
What’s the best way to keep my meatballs tender instead of tough?
The secret is not to overmix your meatball ingredients and avoid pressing the mixture too tightly when rolling them. Gentle handling results in a delicate, juicy centerpiece for your Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe every time.
Is it okay to use homemade sauce instead of jarred marinara?
Definitely! If you have a favorite homemade marinara, feel free to use it. A great sauce makes all the difference, and choosing one you love will make your Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe even more special.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Just swap in your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs for the meatballs and use gluten-free spaghetti. Everything else remains the same, so you can enjoy the comfort of this dish no matter your dietary needs.
What kind of Parmesan should I use?
Freshly grated Parmesan is always best for maximum flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. If you only have pre-grated handy, it’ll work in a pinch, but the real-deal cheese will truly make this Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe sing.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so joyful about serving up a steaming plate of this Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe. It’s a classic for a reason — simple, satisfying, and full of flavor. Give it a try and let your kitchen fill with the warmth (and irresistible aroma!) of homemade comfort food at its finest. You’ll want to make this cozy favorite again and again.
Print
Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe is a classic favorite that’s simple to make and packed with flavor. Tender meatballs in a rich marinara sauce served over al dente spaghetti – a comforting and satisfying meal for any day of the week.
Ingredients
For the meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the spaghetti:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- Salt for pasta water
- Grated Parmesan and chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Shape into 1-inch meatballs.
- Cook the meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet, brown meatballs on all sides. Add marinara sauce, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- Cook the spaghetti: Boil salted water, cook spaghetti until al dente. Drain and transfer to the skillet with meatballs.
- Serve: Spoon sauce and meatballs over spaghetti. Garnish with Parmesan and parsley.
Notes
- You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 840mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
