Spaghetti And Meatballs For A Crowd
Hearty spaghetti and meatballs perfect for feeding a crowd, featuring savory beef and pork meatballs seasoned with herbs and Parmesan, served over al dente pasta with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl and add enough water to moisten.
- Shape the mixture into small balls and place in a single layer in a large baking pan.
- Bake at 450°F (232°C) for 30 minutes until cooked through and browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful meatball, consider adding Italian herbs like oregano or basil to the mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute ground turkey for the beef and pork. Ensure the mixture is moist but firm; adding a little milk can help achieve this. For an alternative, try making these meatballs with ground chicken or a mix of meats for variety.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meatballs over spaghetti with marinara sauce for a classic dish, or pair them with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal. They also work well in sub sandwiches or as an appetizer with toothpicks. For a delicious twist, try them alongside Evan'S Extra Easy Lasagna or as part of a hearty Italian beef recipe.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a bit of marinara sauce on top and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Freezing is also an option; just thaw and reheat as needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti And Meatballs For A Crowd contains roughly 904 calories, with 62g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (148% of the Daily Value), protein (123% of the Daily Value), and iron (121% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1378mg per serving (60% 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 these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatball mixture and shape them a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld, resulting in even tastier meatballs. You can also freeze them uncooked and bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute due to its similar texture and flavor. Alternatively, nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option, adding a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just ensure any substitution complements the overall flavor profile of the dish.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
To ensure meatballs are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Additionally, the meatballs should be browned on the outside and firm to the touch. If you're unsure, cut one open to check that it is no longer pink inside.
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).