Picture this: A table filled with laughter, the rich smell of simmering tomato sauce wafting through the air, and tender spaghetti twirling around forks like dandelion seeds on a summer breeze. Spaghetti and meatballs have a magical ability to bring people together.
Pair it with a fresh side salad or a slice of warm garlic bread, and you’ve got an Italian feast that feels like a warm hug. Trust me, I’ve been there, digging into a bowl that’s as comforting as an old sweater. The best part? This dish doesn’t require hours of prep. With my quick and easy recipe, you’ll be filling plates and hearts in no time.
What is Quick and Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs?
Quick and easy spaghetti and meatballs is exactly what it sounds like—a straightforward, delicious meal that combines spaghetti, juicy meatballs, and a robust marinara sauce. It’s the kind of dish that’s ready in a flash but tastes like it took all day. Whether you’re feeding a family or impressing a date, this recipe delivers.
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The Ingredients
Before we dive into cooking, let’s gather our ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity:
1 lb lean ground beef: Provides the base for our meatballs. You can use turkey or chicken if you prefer.
16 oz dried spaghetti: Perfect for capturing that luscious sauce.
1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs: Helps bind those meatballs together.
3 cups marinara sauce (about 1 jar): Choose a quality brand, or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
2 garlic cloves, finely minced: Adds a punch of flavor.
1 small onion, finely minced: Sweetens up the dish and adds depth.
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: For sprinkling on top and enriching the sauce.
2 large eggs: Another binder for the meatballs.
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend that brings all the Italian vibes.
Freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan, for garnish (optional): Because even a simple meal deserves a touch of elegance!
How to Make Quick and Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs
Let’s get right into the nitty-gritty of making this delightful dish. The beautiful part? Our steps are straightforward, making this a go-to recipe on busy nights.
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, minced garlic, onion, Italian seasoning, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Don’t forget to sprinkle in a bit of salt and pepper.
Use your hands to mix everything together until just combined. But don’t go overboard—this is not a workout session. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Instead, think gentle folding.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to shape those meatballs. I usually aim for about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You want them to be bite-sized but also hearty. Place them on a plate and keep going until you’ve shaped all your mixture.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle in some olive oil. Once it’s shimmering, carefully place your meatballs into the skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan—give them room to breathe.
Cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re golden brown all over. You’re looking for that color; it adds flavor.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
Now that your meatballs are looking delicious, it’s time to pour in the marinara sauce. Make sure every meatball is nestled in the sauce. Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes. This is the time for flavors to meld.
Step 5: Cook the Spaghetti
While the sauce does its magic, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dried spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Typically, that’s about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water just in case you need to loosen up the sauce later.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
At this stage, it’s all coming together! Toss the cooked spaghetti with a little olive oil and serve it up on plates. Ladle the meatballs and sauce over the spaghetti. Finish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and parsley for that pop of color.
Notes
Here are five tips to elevate your spaghetti and meatball game:
Use quality meat: The flavor of your meatballs hinges on it. Lean beef is great, but don’t shy away from a touch of fat either—it adds juiciness.
Let the meatballs rest: Allowing your meatballs to rest for 10 minutes before cooking helps them hold their shape.
Don’t skip the garlic and onion: These aromatics add depth to your dish.
Simmer longer: Allow the sauce to simmer for at least 20 minutes to develop the flavors fully.
Adjust consistency: If your sauce is too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water can help!
Storage Tips
Got leftovers? Don’t worry! Here’s how to store them:
Refrigeration: Place the spaghetti and meatballs in an airtight container. They’ll last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, consider freezing. Meatballs freeze well. Just let them cool completely before transferring to freezer bags. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove.
Nutrition Information
Here’s a quick snapshot of the nutrition per serving (based on 4 servings):
Calories: Approximately 550
Protein: About 30g
Carbohydrates: Approximately 60g
Fat: Around 20g
This is a satisfying dish that provides good nutrition along with comfort.
Serving Suggestions
Enhance your meal with these suggestions:
Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, it’s the perfect vessel for scooping up sauce.
Side Salad: A fresh Italian salad filled with greens, olives, and tomatoes provides a crunch that balances the meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Add seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers tossed with olive oil and garlic for a colorful, healthy side.
Wine Pairing: A glass of Chianti or a light Pinot Grigio complements the flavors beautifully.
Parmesan Crisp: Bake small heaps of grated Parmesan in the oven until golden for a crunchy topping that adds texture.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Quick and Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs?
Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you’re looking for a leaner option, these are perfect. They have a milder flavor, so you may need to amp up the seasoning.
Zoodles (Zucchini Noodles): For a low-carb alternative, spiralized zucchini can substitute spaghetti, giving you that pasta vibe without the extra carbs.
Gluten-Free Pasta: If gluten is a concern, choose your favorite gluten-free pasta, and you won’t miss a beat.
Vegan Meatballs: Crumbled tempeh or lentils mixed with breadcrumbs can create a hearty meatball alternative for plant-based diets.
Herb Variations: Fresh basil or oregano can replace dried Italian seasoning for a garden-fresh flavor.
Conclusion
Quick and easy spaghetti and meatballs is more than a dinner option; it’s an invitation to gather around the table and enjoy good company. Each step, from mixing the meatballs to twirling spaghetti, creates a sense of joy and satisfaction.
As a food enthusiast, I’ve learned that simplicity in cooking often brings the greatest rewards. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, this recipe is your ticket to a fulfilling, flavorful meal that everyone will love. So go ahead, fill those plates, and take a moment to enjoy each bite. Buon appetito!
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Quick and Easy Spaghetti and Meatballs – Gourmet And Food
Description
Picture this: A table filled with laughter, the rich smell of simmering tomato sauce wafting through the air, and tender spaghetti twirling around forks like dandelion seeds on a summer breeze. Spaghetti and meatballs have a magical ability to bring people together.
Pair it with a fresh side salad or a slice of warm garlic bread, and you’ve got an Italian feast that feels like a warm hug. Trust me, I’ve been there, digging into a bowl that’s as comforting as an old sweater. The best part? This dish doesn’t require hours of prep. With my quick and easy recipe, you’ll be filling plates and hearts in no time.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Let’s get right into the nitty-gritty of making this delightful dish. The beautiful part? Our steps are straightforward, making this a go-to recipe on busy nights.
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
-
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, minced garlic, onion, Italian seasoning, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Don’t forget to sprinkle in a bit of salt and pepper.
-
Use your hands to mix everything together until just combined. But don’t go overboard—this is not a workout session. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Instead, think gentle folding.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
-
Once your mixture is ready, it’s time to shape those meatballs. I usually aim for about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You want them to be bite-sized but also hearty. Place them on a plate and keep going until you’ve shaped all your mixture.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
-
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle in some olive oil. Once it’s shimmering, carefully place your meatballs into the skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan—give them room to breathe.
-
Cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re golden brown all over. You’re looking for that color; it adds flavor.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
-
Now that your meatballs are looking delicious, it’s time to pour in the marinara sauce. Make sure every meatball is nestled in the sauce. Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes. This is the time for flavors to meld.
Step 5: Cook the Spaghetti
-
While the sauce does its magic, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dried spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Typically, that’s about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water just in case you need to loosen up the sauce later.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
-
At this stage, it’s all coming together! Toss the cooked spaghetti with a little olive oil and serve it up on plates. Ladle the meatballs and sauce over the spaghetti. Finish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and parsley for that pop of color.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 550kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 20g31%
- Total Carbohydrate 60g20%
- Protein 30g60%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Here are five tips to elevate your spaghetti and meatball game:
Use quality meat: The flavor of your meatballs hinges on it. Lean beef is great, but don’t shy away from a touch of fat either—it adds juiciness.
Let the meatballs rest: Allowing your meatballs to rest for 10 minutes before cooking helps them hold their shape.
Don’t skip the garlic and onion: These aromatics add depth to your dish.
Simmer longer: Allow the sauce to simmer for at least 20 minutes to develop the flavors fully.
Adjust consistency: If your sauce is too thick, a splash of reserved pasta water can help!
