Spaghetti Sauce With Meatballs

Prep: 20 min Cook: 30 min Cuisine: Italian

Savory spaghetti sauce with tender homemade meatballs, rich flavors from spices, garlic, and Worcestershire, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 3 lb. ground chuck
  • 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. dry mustard
  • 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. garlic salt
  • 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. black pepper
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • dash of Tabasco sauce
  • 1 egg

Instructions

  1. Beat the egg in milk and add all spices.
  2. Break up the bread slices and let soak for a while.
  3. Add the ground meat and chopped onion to the mixture.
  4. Mix thoroughly and shape into meatballs.
  5. Brown the meatballs in a skillet until cooked through.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the meat mixture. If you need a substitute for ground chuck, ground turkey or chicken can work well, though the texture will differ. Be cautious with the spices; adjust according to your taste. For a twist, try adding some grated Parmesan cheese to the meatballs for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the meatballs and sauce over spaghetti or your favorite pasta for a classic dish. This pairs beautifully with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. For a variation, try serving it alongside Microwave Baked Ziti for a comforting pasta night. Grated Parmesan and fresh parsley make excellent garnishes.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave the meatballs and sauce in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Spaghetti Sauce With Meatballs contains roughly 1165 calories, with 17g protein, 194g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (41% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2870mg per serving (125% of the Daily Value).

1165 kcal 58% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 16.6g 33% DV
Total Fat 37.6g 48% DV
Carbs 193.7g 70% DV
Fiber 3.9g 14% DV
Sugar 0.9g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2870.3mg 100% DV
Potassium 536.5mg 11% DV
Cholesterol 166.9mg 56% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 372.2mcg 41% DV
Vitamin C 6.5mg 7% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 96.1mg 7% DV
Iron 5.3mg 30% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Egg

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 the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance. After shaping them, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to use, cook them from frozen or thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

What can I serve with spaghetti and meatballs?

Aside from traditional garlic bread, consider serving a light side salad with a balsamic vinaigrette to balance the meal. Roasted vegetables or steamed green beans also complement the dish well. You can even explore Italian recipes like Caprese salad for a fresh pairing.

How do I know when the meatballs are done cooking?

To ensure meatballs are fully cooked, check that they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Additionally, they should be browned on the outside and firm to the touch. Cutting one in half should show no pink inside. Adjust cooking time based on size.

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).

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