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This authentic spaghetti and meatballs recipe is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners. Juicy Italian meatballs simmer in a rich tomato sauce and are served over perfectly cooked spaghetti for a comforting, classic Italian-American dish.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs (Makes about 22–23)

3 slices white bread (crusts removed), diced or torn into pieces
2/3 cup cold water
1 lb lean ground beef (7%–15% fat)
1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 large egg
3/4 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
3 Tbsp light olive oil (or vegetable oil) for sautéing

For the Sauce

1 medium yellow onion (about 1 cup, chopped)
4 cloves garlic, minced
56 oz crushed tomatoes (from two 28 oz cans)
2 bay leaves (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 Tbsp fresh basil, finely minced (plus more for garnish)

Other Ingredients

1 lb spaghetti

Instructions

1. Make the Meatball Mixture

In a small bowl, soak the bread pieces in 2/3 cup cold water for 5 minutes. Mash into a paste using a fork.
In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer with paddle attachment), combine:
ground beef, Italian sausage, Parmesan, garlic, salt, pepper, egg, and mashed bread mixture. Mix until well combined.

2. Shape and Brown the Meatballs

Form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs (about the size of a flat ice cream scoop).
Dredge meatballs in flour, shaking off any excess.
Heat a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat with 3 Tbsp oil. Cook meatballs in batches, browning on all sides (about 6 minutes total, 2 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Marinara Sauce

In the same skillet, add more oil if needed and sauté the chopped onion over medium heat until soft and golden (about 5 minutes).
Add garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in crushed tomatoes and bay leaves. Bring to a gentle boil.

4. Simmer the Meatballs

Return browned meatballs to the sauce. Partially cover and simmer on low for 30 minutes, turning occasionally.
Stir in fresh basil a few minutes before the sauce is done. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Cook the Spaghetti

While the meatballs simmer, cook spaghetti according to package instructions in salted water until al dente. Drain and return to the pot.

6. Assemble and Serve

Gently toss the spaghetti with the meatballs and sauce.
Serve family-style on a large platter. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil. Serve hot.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic flavors: Juicy meatballs and a rich tomato sauce taste just like an Italian classic.
Family-friendly: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Make-ahead friendly: Meatballs and sauce can be prepared ahead of time.
Comfort food at its best: Warm, hearty, and satisfying every single time.

🧑‍🍳 Tips for Success

Don’t skip soaking the bread—it keeps the meatballs moist and tender.
Brown, don’t cook through: Browning meatballs first locks in flavor.
Use a mix of meats: Beef and sausage give the best flavor.
Simmer gently: A slow simmer infuses the sauce with rich flavor and keeps meatballs tender.

🔄 Variations and Substitutions

Meat options: Swap sausage for ground pork or use all beef.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread and pasta.
Add heat: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Herb boost: Add oregano or thyme for more Italian flavor.
Cheesy upgrade: Add mozzarella pearls to the sauce before serving for a melty surprise.

❓ FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store cooked meatballs and sauce in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?
Yes—bake at 400°F for 18–20 minutes until browned, then add to the sauce.

Do I need to use fresh basil?
Fresh basil is best, but you can substitute 1 tsp dried basil in the sauce.

Can I use store-bought sauce?
Yes, but homemade is much more flavorful.

🍽️ Serving and Suggestions

Serve with a side of garlic bread and a crisp Caesar salad for the ultimate Italian meal.
Pair with a glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon.
Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for presentation.
Perfect for meal prep—leftovers taste even better the next day!