This Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe from Delish is the ultimate comfort food made easy. Juicy homemade beef meatballs are browned to perfection and simmered in a simple tomato sauce, then served over tender spaghetti noodles. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family meal or a cozy weekend dinner, this no-frills recipe delivers satisfying, familiar flavors with minimal fuss.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 1 lb spaghetti

• 1 lb ground beef

• ⅓ cup breadcrumbs

• ¼ cup finely chopped parsley

• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan (plus more for serving)

• 1 large egg

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• Kosher salt

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes

• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• ½ cup onion, finely chopped

• 1 (28-oz) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 bay leaf

• Freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente, then drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, Parmesan, egg, garlic, 1 tsp salt, and red pepper flakes. Mix just until combined, then shape into 16 meatballs.

3. Brown the meatballs: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches and brown on all sides, about 10 minutes total. Transfer to a plate.

4. Make the sauce: In the same pot, add chopped onion and sauté until soft (about 5 minutes). Stir in crushed tomatoes and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

5. Simmer meatballs: Return meatballs to the pot, cover, and simmer for 8–10 minutes until sauce thickens and meatballs are cooked through.

6. Serve: Plate the spaghetti and top generously with meatballs and sauce. Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.

Nutrients (Per serving, approx. 4–6 servings)

• Calories: ~570

• Protein: ~28g

• Fat: ~25g

• Carbohydrates: ~60g

• Fiber: ~4g

• Sugar: ~8g

• Sodium: ~800mg

The Origins and Legacy of Spaghetti and Meatballs

Although often associated with traditional Italian cuisine, spaghetti and meatballs as we know it is more of an Italian-American invention. In Italy, meatballs—or polpette—are typically served on their own or in soup, and pasta is a separate course entirely. When Italian immigrants came to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, they adapted their cuisine using more readily available ingredients. Ground beef was more affordable in America, and canned tomatoes were easily accessible. Thus, spaghetti and meatballs became a fusion dish, rooted in Italian techniques but undeniably American in spirit.

Today, it’s a staple of family dinners, weeknight meals, and nostalgic comfort food menus. It evokes memories of Sunday suppers, grandmother’s kitchen, and classic red-and-white tablecloth restaurants.

Building Layers of Flavor

This recipe may be simple in execution, but it’s all about layering flavors. The meatballs start with a classic mixture of ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and fresh parsley, held together with an egg and seasoned with garlic and red pepper flakes. These ingredients ensure the meatballs are moist, tender, and flavorful. Browning them in olive oil develops a rich crust and adds another layer of flavor to the pot.

The tomato sauce is equally thoughtful. Starting with sautéed onions builds a sweet, aromatic base. Crushed tomatoes provide the heart of the sauce, while a bay leaf lends subtle depth. As the meatballs simmer in the sauce, they infuse it with rich, meaty flavor, making every bite more satisfying than the last.

Why This Recipe Works for Any Occasion

What makes this recipe particularly appealing is its adaptability. It’s simple enough for a casual weeknight dinner but hearty and nostalgic enough to be the centerpiece of a weekend gathering. Serve it with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal, or pair it with a robust red wine for a cozy, elevated dining experience.

It’s also incredibly family-friendly. Kids and adults alike gravitate toward the familiar flavors of pasta, tomato sauce, and meatballs. You can even prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time and freeze them for later, making this a great option for meal prep or busy schedules.

Customizable for Dietary Needs and Preferences

Though the original recipe calls for beef, it’s easy to swap in ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version. Gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free pasta can be used to make this dish gluten-free without sacrificing taste or texture.

If you’re looking to make it dairy-free, simply omit the Parmesan or replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative. For those watching their sodium intake, opt for no-salt-added crushed tomatoes and adjust seasoning to taste. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility—it can be adapted to suit nearly any dietary need.

Perfecting the Meatball Texture

One of the keys to making memorable spaghetti and meatballs is achieving the ideal meatball texture. You want them to be tender, not dense or dry. The use of breadcrumbs and egg helps keep the meatballs soft and moist. Mixing the ingredients just until combined is also crucial—overworking the mixture can lead to tough meatballs.

Browning the meatballs before simmering not only locks in flavor but also helps them hold their shape. The final simmer in the sauce ensures that they are fully cooked and infused with the rich tomato flavor.

The Sauce Makes the Meal

While the meatballs are the stars of the dish, the sauce ties everything together. A good tomato sauce should be thick, slightly sweet, and well-seasoned. Using canned crushed tomatoes gives you control over the consistency and flavor, while sautéed onions and a bay leaf bring a subtle complexity.

This version avoids the use of sugar or excess additives, relying on the natural sweetness of tomatoes and the savory flavors of the meat and aromatics. The result is a balanced, rich sauce that complements the meatballs and coats the pasta beautifully.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Spaghetti and meatballs can stand alone as a complete meal, but a few thoughtful additions can elevate it further. A side of crusty bread or buttery garlic toast is perfect for soaking up the leftover sauce. A fresh green salad with a lemony vinaigrette provides contrast to the richness of the meat and sauce.

If you’re serving this for a dinner party or special occasion, consider adding a simple appetizer like bruschetta or stuffed mushrooms. Finish the meal with a classic Italian dessert like tiramisu, panna cotta, or cannoli for a full Italian-American dining experience.

In terms of beverages, a bold red wine such as Chianti, Sangiovese, or Cabernet Sauvignon pairs well with the deep flavors of the dish. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with lemon or an Italian soda can be refreshing and festive.

Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips

This recipe lends itself well to prepping ahead. You can make the meatballs in bulk and freeze them raw or cooked. The sauce can also be frozen separately or with the meatballs included. Simply thaw and reheat on the stove for a quick and easy meal.

Cooked spaghetti should ideally be made fresh, but you can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days if needed. To avoid sticking, toss it with a drizzle of olive oil before storing.

Conclusion

Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs is a dish that never goes out of style. It’s comforting, satisfying, and packed with bold, familiar flavors that appeal to just about everyone. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is approachable and foolproof. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of love, you can recreate a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home.

What makes this version especially compelling is its balance—juicy meatballs with the perfect amount of seasoning, a tomato sauce that’s simple yet flavorful, and al dente spaghetti to bring it all together. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet nourishing, perfect for any day of the week.

From family dinners to cozy date nights, this Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe delivers not only delicious food but also a sense of warmth and tradition. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a reminder that the simplest dishes, when made with care, are often the most memorable.