Spaghetti And Meatballs
A comforting classic featuring tender meatballs simmered in a sweet and tangy sauce, served over spaghetti noodles. This dish offers a savory blend of flavors perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, combining hearty meat, flavorful sauce, and al dente pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the spaghetti noodles as directed on the package.
- While the noodles are cooking, mix seasoned salt, egg, hamburger, saltine crackers, and onion flakes to form meatballs.
- Drop the meatball mixture by teaspoonfuls into a warm electric skillet set at 250 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Cook the meatballs until done, then drain off any excess grease if necessary.
- In a separate bowl, combine mustard, catsup, brown sugar, water, and chili powder to make the sauce.
- Once the noodles are cooked and drained, add them to the skillet with the meatballs.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the noodles and meatballs.
- Simmer until everything is heated thoroughly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating finely chopped garlic or fresh herbs like parsley into the meatball mixture. If you don't have saltine crackers, use breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes as a substitute. Adjust the chili powder according to your spice preference, or swap in Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile. This dish can be easily adapted to include vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spaghetti and meatballs with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a side of garlic bread for a comforting meal. A fresh green salad or steamed broccoli pairs beautifully with this dish, adding a refreshing contrast. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside garlic sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to three months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti And Meatballs contains roughly 1240 calories, with 17g protein, 195g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (44% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2896mg per serving (126% 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 ground turkey instead of hamburger for the meatballs?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for hamburger if you're looking for a leaner option. Just be aware that turkey may require slightly more seasoning to achieve a similar flavor profile. Ensure you don't overcook the turkey meatballs, as they can become dry.
What can I use if I don't have catsup?
If you don't have catsup, you can substitute it with tomato sauce or diced tomatoes mixed with a bit of sugar and vinegar. Alternatively, homemade tomato sauce can work as well, just adjust the sweetness to your taste. This will still give you a delicious sauce for your meatballs and spaghetti.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the hamburger with a mix of cooked lentils, finely chopped mushrooms, and grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots. Use egg replacers like flaxseed meal or a commercial product to bind the mixture. Serve over spaghetti with a marinara sauce for a hearty and satisfying meal.
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).