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Amy's Global Kitchen Recipes's avatarAmy's Global Kitchen Recipes

Spaghetti and Meatballs

My Granny’s Spaghetti and Meatballs is a true family classic, made the old-fashioned way with no shortcuts, just time, care, and lots of love. The rich, slow-simmered sauce and tender, homemade meatballs come together to create a comforting dish that has been passed down through generations.
Print Recipe
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Ground beef
  • ½ cup Bread crumbs Italian seasoned
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 tsp Onion chopped
  • 1 egg
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • 1 piece of toast soaked in water
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can tomato sauce
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 Tbsp tomato paste
  • Salt pepper & oregano, to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley to finish optional
  • ~1 cup pasta per person spaghetti preferred!
  • Grated Parmesan & red pepper flakes for topping

Method
 

  1. In a bowl, combine meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, onion, egg, salt, pepper, and the soaked toast (squeeze out excess water first).
  2. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork it!
  3. Roll into 1-inch balls.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  5. Brown meatballs on all sides (they don’t have to be fully cooked yet). Remove and set aside.
  6. Bake in a 400 F (200 C) oven for about 20 minutes
  7. Add oil to pot. Sauté onions until soft, about 5 mins.
  8. Add garlic, stir for 30 seconds.
  9. Stir in tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste.
  10. Season with salt, pepper, oregano. Simmer for 10 mins.
  11. Return meatballs to sauce and simmer gently for 25–30 mins until cooked through and flavors are combined.
  12. While sauce simmers, cook spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and reserve a splash of pasta water if needed to thin sauce.
  13. Toss pasta with sauce or plate separately. Top with meatballs, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes. Garnish with basil or parsley if desired.

Notes

 Meatless & Alternative Options:
Try it with:
  • Hard-boiled eggs (a southern Italian twist)
  • Sautéed mushrooms
  • Italian sausage
  • Ground turkey or chicken
⏱ Time-Saving Tips:
  • Make meatballs ahead and freeze
  • Meat Sauce instead of meatballs
  • Use your favorite jarred marinara in a pinch
🍷 Serving Suggestions:
Pair with garlic bread, a crisp salad, and a glass of red or white wine.