Easy Spaghetti And Meatballs
A hearty and flavorful spaghetti and meatballs dish featuring seasoned meatballs simmered in tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make meatballs from ground meat, chopped onion, garlic, salt, and pepper, then set aside.
- Put the meatballs into a large skillet and cook until browned.
- Add chopped onion and garlic to the ground meat mixture before forming meatballs.
- Add tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and pepper to the skillet with meatballs.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 40 minutes in a large saucepan.
- Meanwhile, cook spaghetti in boiling salted water for about 12 minutes until al dente.
- Serve the meatballs over the cooked spaghetti and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For moist meatballs, consider adding a splash of milk or some breadcrumbs to the mixture. If you prefer a spicier kick, adding red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor. Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Additionally, fresh herbs like parsley or basil can elevate the dish, making it a standout among your favorite Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatballs over a generous portion of spaghetti, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. A side of garlic bread pairs well, along with a crisp green salad like Aunt Kathy's Pasta Salad for a complete meal. For a twist, try serving with a side of roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs and spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through. For longer storage, freeze meatballs separately.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Spaghetti And Meatballs contains roughly 93 calories, with 5g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (166% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1797mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen meatballs instead of making them from scratch?
Yes, you can use frozen meatballs for convenience. Just be sure to thaw them before adding to the sauce, or add them directly to the skillet with the sauce and cook until heated through. This can save time while still delivering a delicious meal.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out too thick, simply add a little water or broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency. Stir well to incorporate, and allow it to simmer for a few additional minutes to meld the flavors.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground meat with a plant-based alternative or use lentils and mushrooms for texture and flavor. Additionally, ensure the Worcestershire sauce is vegetarian or use soy sauce as a substitute for that umami kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).