Meatballs And Spaghetti
Meatballs and spaghetti combine tender, flavorful meatballs with a rich tomato sauce, served over al dente noodles. This comforting dish features seasoned beef, aromatic herbs, and a savory sauce, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings that enjoy classic Italian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix hamburger, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, juice of tomatoes, egg, 1/2 teaspoon oregano, and seasoning salt together.
- Scoop up a tablespoon of meat mixture into balls and brown in a skillet.
- Combine tomato sauce, chopped whole tomatoes, diced celery, 1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt, 1/8 teaspoon oregano, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/8 teaspoon Italian seasoning in a pot.
- Simmer the sauce mixture.
- When meatballs are browned, drain on paper towels, then add them into the sauce and simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Boil water and cook spaghetti noodles according to package instructions.
- Serve the meatballs and sauce over the cooked noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some finely chopped onion or bell pepper with the meat mixture. If you're out of Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano for a similar taste. Adjust the seasoning salt to your preference, and feel free to experiment with fresh herbs if available. To save time, you can use pre-made meatballs instead of shaping your own.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatballs and sauce over a generous portion of spaghetti noodles, and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. A side of garlic bread and a simple green salad pairs wonderfully with this dish, making it a complete meal. For a twist, try serving it alongside Easy Vegetable Linguine for a colorful plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meatballs and sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual servings, covered, for 1-2 minutes or until hot, ensuring to stir halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meatballs And Spaghetti contains roughly 1184 calories, with 30g protein, 242g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (171% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (112% of the Daily Value), and calcium (112% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2957mg per serving (129% 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 freeze the meatballs and sauce?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs and sauce together in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This is a great way to have a homemade meal ready to go on busy days, just like with any of your favorite Italian recipes.
What can I substitute for spaghetti noodles?
If you're looking for a gluten-free option, try using rice noodles or zucchini noodles. For a heartier alternative, consider whole wheat spaghetti or even linguini. These options will still complement the meatballs and sauce beautifully, allowing you to enjoy the dish with a personal twist.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
The meatballs should be browned on the outside and have an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C) when fully cooked. You can also cut one open to check that it's no longer pink inside. Simmering them in the sauce for an additional 20 minutes helps ensure they are cooked through and flavorful.
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).