Get ready to transform your dinner routine with a mouthwatering Italian classic that will have your family begging for seconds! This isn't just another spaghetti and meatballs recipe - it's a culinary journey that combines tender, juicy meatballs with a rich marinara sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you're a busy home cook or a weekend chef, this foolproof recipe will elevate your cooking game and impress even the pickiest eaters.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- 8 ounces spaghetti
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your meatballs cook evenly and get a nice golden brown color.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and the egg. Use your hands or a fork to mix the ingredients until well combined, but be careful not to overmix.
- Once the mixture is well combined, use your hands to form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to
- 5 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking.
- After forming all the meatballs, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and browned on the outside.
- While the meatballs are baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Once the spaghetti is cooked, reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti in a colander.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, pour in the jar of marinara sauce and bring it to a simmer. Once the meatballs are done baking, carefully add them to the simmering sauce. Let them simmer together for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- If the marinara sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta cooking water to reach your desired consistency.
- To serve, place a portion of spaghetti on each plate and top with the meatballs and marinara sauce. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious baked meatballs and spaghetti!
Tips
- Mix with a Light Touch: When combining meatball ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can make your meatballs tough and dense.
- Size Matters: Keep your meatballs uniform in size (1-
- 5 inches) to ensure even cooking.
- Use a Baking Sheet with Sides: This prevents any grease from dripping and makes cleanup easier.
- Don't Skip the Resting Time: Let the meatballs simmer in the marinara sauce for those extra 5 minutes to develop deep, rich flavors.
- Pasta Water is Liquid Gold: Reserve some pasta water to adjust your sauce consistency - it's packed with starch and flavor.
- Optional Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a subtle kick.
- Make Ahead Friendly: These meatballs freeze beautifully. Make a double batch and save some for a quick future meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 120mg
