Best Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe Ever!

This article details an easy spaghetti and meatballs recipe, providing a straightforward approach to a classic dish. The recipe emphasizes simplicity and accessibility, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Preparation time is minimal, and the ingredients are readily available, ensuring a convenient and satisfying meal. This guide offers detailed instructions, ingredient lists, and helpful tips to guarantee a delicious outcome every time. Understanding the recipe’s nutritional profile is also discussed, along with frequently asked questions.

The core of this easy spaghetti and meatballs recipe lies in its balanced flavor profile and ease of preparation. The method prioritizes techniques that minimize complexity while maximizing taste. Careful attention is paid to the meatball preparation, ensuring a tender and flavorful result. The sauce, a crucial component, is crafted to be rich and satisfying without requiring extensive cooking time. The recipe is designed to be adaptable, allowing for personal preferences and dietary needs.

This easy recipe provides a satisfying meal with minimal effort, focusing on achieving maximum flavor with readily available ingredients and straightforward techniques. The result is a comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. The step-by-step instructions make this recipe approachable for cooks of all skill levels, fostering a sense of culinary accomplishment.

Ingredients for this Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 lb spaghetti

Instructions for this Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

1. Preheat oven to 375F (190C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined.
3. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides.
5. Transfer the meatballs to a baking dish.
6. In the same skillet, combine crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and sugar. Bring to a simmer.
7. Pour the sauce over the meatballs.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
9. Meanwhile, cook spaghetti according to package directions.
10. Serve the meatballs and sauce over the spaghetti.

Estimated Cooking Time and Servings for this Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

This easy spaghetti and meatballs recipe offers a balanced and delicious meal. The table below details the preparation and cooking times, as well as the number of servings the recipe yields. The timing is approximate and may vary slightly depending on the oven and cooking equipment used. It’s important to ensure the meatballs are cooked thoroughly, indicated by their internal temperature reaching 160F (71C).

Nutritional Information for this Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

This easy spaghetti and meatballs recipe provides a good source of protein and carbohydrates. The nutritional content varies depending on the specific ingredients used, but a general overview can be obtained by analyzing the main components. The meat provides protein and iron, while the tomatoes offer lycopene and other vitamins. The pasta contributes carbohydrates for energy. It’s recommended to consult a nutritional calculator for precise values.

Note: The following nutritional information is an approximation and may vary based on specific brands and ingredient quantities. It is crucial to consult a nutrition calculator for precise values using your specific ingredients.

Tips for Cooking this Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

Achieving the perfect easy spaghetti and meatballs requires attention to detail and a few key techniques. Proper meatball preparation and sauce simmering contribute to the overall taste and texture. By following these tips, one can consistently create a satisfying and flavorful dish. The recipe’s adaptability allows for customization based on individual preferences and dietary requirements.

1. Don’t overmix the meatball mixture:

   Overmixing can result in tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients until just incorporated.

2. Brown the meatballs thoroughly:

   Browning the meatballs before adding them to the sauce adds depth of flavor and helps them retain their shape during cooking.

3. Simmer the sauce gently:

   Allowing the sauce to simmer gently for at least 30 minutes develops its rich flavor.

4. Add fresh herbs:

   Fresh basil or parsley added at the end enhances the sauce’s aroma and flavor.

5. Use high-quality ingredients:
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   The quality of ingredients directly impacts the final taste. Use fresh, flavorful tomatoes and good-quality ground meat.

6. Adjust seasoning to taste:

   Seasoning is subjective. Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, and other seasonings as needed to suit your palate.

Mastering this easy spaghetti and meatballs recipe lies in understanding the balance of flavors and textures. The simplicity of the recipe shouldn’t be mistaken for a lack of depth; careful attention to detail yields a surprisingly flavorful result. The versatility allows cooks to personalize the dish with their preferred herbs and spices, resulting in a truly unique creation.

The recipe’s accessibility makes it a valuable addition to any cook’s repertoire, offering a quick and delicious weeknight meal option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It showcases how a classic dish can be simplified without sacrificing quality, catering to busy schedules while still providing a hearty and satisfying culinary experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about this Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

This section addresses common questions related to preparing this easy spaghetti and meatballs recipe, covering topics from ingredient substitutions to cooking time adjustments. Understanding these points aids in consistent success and allows for personalization based on individual preferences and circumstances. These FAQs offer practical solutions to potential issues, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable cooking process.

1. Can I use different types of ground meat?

   Yes, you can experiment with different ground meats, such as turkey or chicken. However, using a mixture of beef and pork typically provides the best flavor and texture.

2. What if I don’t have fresh parsley?

   Dried parsley can be substituted, but use about 1/3 the amount of fresh parsley called for in the recipe. Other fresh herbs, such as basil or oregano, can also be used.

3. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

   Yes, you can make the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Brown them before adding them to the sauce.

4. How can I thicken the sauce?

   If the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it for a longer period of time, or by adding a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).

5. Can I freeze the leftovers?

   Yes, leftover spaghetti and meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely before freezing, and store them in an airtight container.

This easy spaghetti and meatballs recipe is a testament to the power of simplicity in cooking. The focus on straightforward techniques and readily available ingredients allows anyone to recreate this classic dish with confidence. The recipe encourages experimentation and personalization, making it a versatile and adaptable addition to any culinary repertoire.

In conclusion, this detailed guide provides a comprehensive understanding of how to prepare a delicious and satisfying easy spaghetti and meatballs recipe. The emphasis on straightforward techniques and easily accessible ingredients makes this a perfect choice for cooks of all skill levels. The flexibility allows for adjustments to suit individual preferences and dietary needs, ensuring a consistently flavorful and enjoyable meal.