Maw Maw'S Spaghetti And Meatballs
A hearty, flavorful spaghetti and meatballs dish featuring rich tomato gravy, perfect for family dinners and comforting occasions with classic Italian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in tomato paste, tomato sauce, sugar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add water gradually, stirring to combine and create the gravy.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 45 minutes.
- Serve over cooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic and red pepper flakes while sautéing the onion. You can substitute the sugar with honey or a sugar alternative for a healthier option. If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of water or add a spoonful of tomato paste as needed. Pair this dish with Italian Bruschetta for an appetizer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this spaghetti and meatballs dish hot over al dente pasta, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. A side of garlic bread complements the meal perfectly, and a light salad can balance the richness of the sauce. This dish pairs beautifully with Pasta With Mushrooms for a delightful Italian feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the sauce in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. For longer storage, freeze the sauce for up to 3 months, then thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maw Maw'S Spaghetti And Meatballs contains roughly 958 calories, with 6g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 89g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (119% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (93% of the Daily Value), and calcium (71% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1792mg 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 fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! About 4-5 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes will work well. Just cook them down until they break apart and form a sauce, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, you can replace meatballs with plant-based alternatives or make your own using lentils or chickpeas. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially sauces, are vegetarian-friendly.
What type of pasta works best with this sauce?
While spaghetti is a classic choice, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne or fettuccine. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente and toss it with sauce right before serving for the best flavor.
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).