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Classic Italian Meatballs & Spaghetti

This classic Italian dish features juicy meatballs served over tender spaghetti with a flavorful tomato sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 700
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 2 tablespoons dried)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (to cut the acidity)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
For Serving
  • 8 ounces spaghetti
  • Extra grated Parmesan for serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined and shape into 1-inch meatballs.
  3. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Cooking
  1. Bake the meatballs in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let this simmer while the meatballs cook.
  4. Once the meatballs are done, carefully place them in the sauce, stirring to coat them and allow them to simmer together for another 5 minutes.
  5. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Serving
  1. Plate the spaghetti, ladle the meatballs and sauce on top, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil and extra Parmesan.

Notes

Feel free to customize your meatballs with different meats or add spices. You can also use jarred marinara for a quicker meal.