Spaghetti and meatballs is the ultimate comfort food—a dish that brings together tender, flavorful meatballs, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti. It’s simple, hearty, and the kind of meal that always feels like home.
The meatballs are soft and juicy on the inside, while the homemade tomato sauce coats every strand of pasta beautifully. This is one of those timeless recipes everyone will love.
💡 Tips, Tricks & Common Mistakes
- Don’t overmix the meatball mixture, or the meatballs may become dense.
- Brown the meatballs before simmering for extra flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while searing.
- Cook the spaghetti until just al dente since it will continue to soften slightly when combined with the sauce.
Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
Description
Tender homemade meatballs simmered in rich tomato sauce and served over spaghetti. A comforting, family-friendly classic that's perfect for Sunday dinner.
Ingredients
For the meatballs
For the tomato sauce
For serving
Instructions
-
Prepare the meatball mixture
In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk and let them sit for a few minutes until softened. Add the ground beef, garlic, egg, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined.
-
Shape the meatballs
Roll the mixture into evenly sized meatballs.
-
Sear the meatballs
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs in batches on all sides until golden. They don't need to be fully cooked at this stage. Remove and set aside.
-
Make the tomato sauce
In the same pan, add the diced onion and cook until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and water. Season with oregano, sugar if using, salt, and pepper. Add fresh basil.
-
Simmer the meatballs
Return the meatballs to the sauce. Cover and simmer over low heat for 25–30 minutes, gently stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are fully cooked and tender.
-
Cook the spaghetti
Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
-
Combine and serve
Toss the spaghetti with some of the tomato sauce, adding a splash of pasta water if needed. Serve topped with the meatballs, extra sauce, grated Parmesan, and fresh basil or parsley.
