Spaghetti Meatballs And Sauce
A hearty and flavorful spaghetti dish featuring tender meatballs in a rich, tomato-based sauce. The sauce is seasoned with basil, oregano, garlic, and a touch of sweetness, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Comforting and satisfying for all pasta lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Finely chop the onion and lightly brown it in a saucepan with oil.
- Add tomato paste along with 3 paste cans of water and the stewed tomatoes.
- Let the sauce simmer for 30 minutes to 1 hour, adding warm water as needed to maintain the level.
- Add salt, sugar, pepper, sweet basil, garlic salt or garlic cloves, oregano, and bay leaves.
- Let the sauce simmer for an additional 30 minutes, adding warm water as needed.
- Add the meatballs to the sauce and cook until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, sauté the onion until caramelized rather than just lightly browned. You can substitute the stewed tomatoes with crushed tomatoes if desired. If you prefer a vegetarian option, consider using lentil meatballs. Adding a splash of balsamic vinegar can enhance the sauce's sweetness and depth. For a touch of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spaghetti and meatballs garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil. A side of garlic bread pairs perfectly to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter meal, consider a mixed green salad dressed with Zesty Italian Dressing. This dish is also great for meal prep; simply double the recipe for Scott'S Favorite Spaghetti And Meatballs.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the spaghetti and meatballs in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if necessary. You can also reheat in the microwave, covered, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Meatballs And Sauce contains roughly 394 calories, with 9g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (162% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (127% of the Daily Value), and calcium (95% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1785mg 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 freeze the spaghetti and meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the spaghetti and meatballs together or separately. To freeze, let them cool completely, then store in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can simmer it uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the sauce, cooking it for a few more minutes until thickened to your liking.
What can I use instead of tomato paste?
If you don’t have tomato paste, you can use an equal amount of tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes, though this may slightly alter the sauce's consistency and flavor. For a richer taste, consider adding a small amount of sun-dried tomatoes or a spoonful of ketchup as a substitute.
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).