Few dishes feel as comforting as a hearty plate of Baked Meatball & Spaghetti. Juicy, tender meatballs paired with perfectly cooked pasta and a rich tomato sauce create a meal that’s both timeless and soul-satisfying. Whether you’re feeding the family, impressing a date, or just craving a bowl of pure comfort, this Italian-American favorite never disappoints.
| **Ingredients for Meatballs | Ingredients for Sauce | Other Ingredients** |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | Crushed tomatoes | Olive oil |
| Bread crumbs | Onion | Salt |
| Milk | Garlic | Black pepper |
| Parmesan cheese | Basil | Red pepper flakes |
| Egg | Sugar | |
| Parsley | Salt | |
| Salt and pepper | Olive oil |
Crafting the Perfect Meatballs:
- Mixing the Ingredients: In a bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, Parmesan, egg, parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix gently until everything comes together.
- Shaping the Meatballs: Roll into evenly sized balls for consistent cooking.
- Baking the Meatballs: Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until browned and cooked through.
Preparing the Flavorful Sauce:
- Sautéing the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant.
- Simmering the Sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Add basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes for heat. Balance with a pinch of sugar. Let simmer 15–20 minutes so the flavors blend.
Bringing It All Together:
- Boiling the Spaghetti: Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Salt the water generously for added flavor.
- Mixing the Magic: Toss the spaghetti with the sauce so every strand is coated in rich flavor.
- Plating and Savoring: Top with baked meatballs, sprinkle with Parmesan, and garnish with fresh basil. Serve hot and enjoy a plate of comfort that feels like dining in Italy.
This baked meatball and spaghetti recipe is hearty, flavorful, and guaranteed to become a regular in your kitchen.