Italian Spaghetti And Meat Balls
Italian Spaghetti and Meatballs features tender meatballs simmered in a rich, savory tomato sauce infused with garlic, oregano, and mushrooms. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this classic dish offers hearty flavors and cheesy goodness that satisfy and delight everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 0.5 lb ground beef ⓘ
- 6 oz. can tomato paste ⓘ
- 6 oz. can water ⓘ
- 8 oz. can tomato sauce ⓘ
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped ⓘ
- 1 clove garlic or garlic powder ⓘ
- 1 cup tomatoes ⓘ
- 0.25 tsp. pepper ⓘ
- 1 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. brown sugar ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. lemon juice ⓘ
- 1 tsp. oregano ⓘ
- 1 small can mushrooms ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. Parmesan cheese ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. chili powder ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine tomato paste, water, and tomato sauce in a large pan and bring to a simmer.
- Add finely chopped onion and garlic; let simmer for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Add remaining ingredients, including tomatoes, mushrooms, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, lemon juice, oregano, chili powder, and any other seasonings.
- Bring the sauce to a simmering point.
- Drop in meatballs made from ground beef into the sauce.
- Cook slowly for 1 hour, allowing flavors to meld and meatballs to cook through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using freshly chopped herbs like basil or parsley instead of dried. If you're out of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce can be a suitable substitute. To save time, you can use pre-made meatballs or substitute ground turkey for a lighter option. For a twist, try adding crushed red pepper for some heat or serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra touch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spaghetti and meatballs with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top adds a vibrant touch. This dish pairs beautifully with Homemade Lasagna for a hearty Italian feast or can be enjoyed with a glass of red wine for a classic dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spaghetti and meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. For longer storage, consider freezing the dish in portioned containers, where it can last for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Spaghetti And Meat Balls contains roughly 552 calories, with 11g protein, 125g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (136% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (105% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (79% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2121mg per serving (92% 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 make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze them raw or cooked; just make sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw in the fridge before adding them to the sauce.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
If you're looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well as substitutes. For a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or plant-based meat alternatives. You can also mix in chopped mushrooms for added texture and flavor, making it a delicious option for everyone.
How can I thicken the sauce?
If your sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a longer time to allow excess liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry and stir it into the sauce, cooking until thickened. Adding grated Parmesan cheese can also help achieve a richer texture.
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).