Why You’ll Love This Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
When you try this homemade spaghetti and meatballs recipe, you’ll quickly understand why it’s a family favorite. The rich, savory sauce simmers for hours, melding flavors that make every bite unforgettable.
Each meatball bursts with a perfect blend of spices, and the tender pasta complements it all beautifully. I love how this dish brings everyone together around the dinner table, sparking laughter and joy.
Plus, it’s versatile—great for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends. You’ll appreciate the aroma filling your kitchen, making it hard to resist grabbing seconds.
Trust me, you won’t want to miss this!
Ingredients of Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs
When it comes to making homemade spaghetti and meatballs, the heart of the dish lies in the ingredients you choose. The combination of juicy meatballs, a rich and flavorful sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out.
So, let’s explore what you’ll need to gather for this delightful culinary adventure.
Here’s your shopping list for the ultimate spaghetti and meatballs:
- 1 lb medium ground meat (or lean, if you prefer)
- 2 tablespoons BBQ seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or canola oil)
- 1 large onion (your choice of onion)
- 1 medium green pepper
- 2 (10 ounce) cans whole mushrooms (cut into quarters)
- 2 (28 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 (10 ounce) can tomato soup
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (this is key)
- 1 pinch sea salt (or regular salt)
- Pepper to taste
- Multigrain spaghetti
Now, a few thoughts on the ingredients: Sometimes, it’s the little things that make a big difference. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the ground meat for turkey or chicken, or even make a vegetarian version with lentils or mushrooms.
And don’t skimp on the Italian seasoning; it’s like the magical fairy dust that brings everything together. Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor too—basil, oregano, or parsley can make your sauce sing.
So, go ahead and have fun with it! Cooking is all about experimenting, and you might just stumble upon a delicious twist that becomes your new favorite.
Plus, if you can’t find one of the ingredients, don’t stress it. Cooking is flexible, just like that time I tried to substitute garlic powder for fresh garlic and ended up with an unexpected culinary surprise.
Sometimes, those happy accidents can lead to the best stories.
How to Make Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs
Alright, let’s plunge into the delicious process of making homemade spaghetti and meatballs, shall we? It all starts with the meatballs. Grab 1 lb of medium ground meat (or lean if you’re feeling a tad more health-conscious). Toss in 2 tablespoons of BBQ seasoning and mix it all up.
Get your hands a bit messy—it’s part of the fun—and form the mixture into small balls. Don’t worry about making them perfect; they’re going to taste amazing regardless of their shape. Once you’ve got your meatballs ready, set them aside for a moment while we tackle the sauce.
In a large pot, heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or canola oil if you prefer) over medium heat. Now, toss in 1 large onion—chop it up however you like—and 1 medium green pepper, along with 2 (10 ounce) cans of whole mushrooms that you’ve cut into quarters.
Sauté these until the onions become transparent, but don’t let them turn to mush; we want a little bit of bite left. Here’s the fun part: add your beautifully browned meatballs to the pot. Then, it’s time to mix in the stars of the show: 2 (28 ounce) cans of crushed tomatoes, 1 (6 ounce) can of tomato paste, 1 (10 ounce) can of tomato soup, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning.
Sprinkle in a pinch of sea salt and some pepper to taste. Stir it all together and let it simmer on low heat for 2 to 3 hours. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can even use a slow cooker and let it work its magic for 3-4 hours. Just imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen—pure bliss.
While that hearty sauce is bubbling away, boil your multigrain spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once it’s al dente (you know, the perfect bite), drain it and then serve it up with a generous scoop of that rich sauce and meatballs on top.
And don’t forget to sprinkle some Parmesan cheese over everything. It’s the finishing touch that says, “I’ve got my life together.” If you want to really elevate this meal, whip up some garlic bread on the side. Trust me, your family will be raving about it.
And here’s a pro tip: if you make a big batch of sauce, freeze some for later. You’ll thank yourself on those busy days when dinner feels like a mountain to climb. Happy cooking!
Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to shake things up with your homemade spaghetti and meatballs, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try.
For the meat, consider using turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even a plant-based meat alternative if you’re going vegetarian.
Swap out the crushed tomatoes for roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor. You can also experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano instead of Italian seasoning.
For the pasta, try whole wheat or gluten-free options.
Don’t hesitate to add in your favorite veggies to the sauce, like zucchini or spinach, for added nutrition!
What to Serve with Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs
Pairing the right sides with homemade spaghetti and meatballs can elevate your meal to a delightful experience.
I love serving a crisp, fresh salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. Garlic bread is a classic choice, perfect for soaking up that savory sauce.
For something a bit different, roasted vegetables add a lovely touch and complement the flavors well. You might also consider a side of sautéed greens, like spinach or kale, for a nutritious boost.
Each of these sides enhances the meal, making it a truly memorable dining experience. Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your homemade spaghetti and meatballs, keep in mind a few tips to enhance the cooking process and final dish.
First, let your meatballs rest for a few minutes after shaping them; this helps them hold their shape while cooking.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to your sauce.
If you want to save time, prep your sauce a day ahead—flavors deepen overnight!
Finally, don’t forget to top your dish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
Enjoy your meal, and happy cooking!