There’s nothing quite like a plate of spaghetti and meatballs to evoke feelings of comfort and nostalgia. This classic dish is a beloved staple that brings families together around the dinner table. The satisfaction of twirling perfectly cooked spaghetti around your fork, complemented by juicy meatballs and a rich marinara sauce, is truly unbeatable.
Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as the meatballs bake in the oven, mingling with the simmering sauce on the stove. It’s a meal that not only fills your belly but warms your heart. This recipe makes it easy to create an authentic Italian experience right at home, using simple ingredients and straightforward techniques.
Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or just a cozy night in, this spaghetti and meatballs recipe is sure to impress. Get ready to savor every bite of this comforting classic!
The Ultimate Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

This classic spaghetti and meatballs dish features tender, homemade meatballs simmered in a savoury marinara sauce, served over al dente spaghetti. It’s a perfect balance of flavours, with a satisfying taste that combines the richness of the meat with the acidity of the sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- Extra Parmesan cheese and parsley for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, milk, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Form into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake the Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until they’re browned and cooked through.
- Cook the Spaghetti: While the meatballs are baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Simmer the Sauce: In a large saucepan, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat. Once the meatballs are baked, add them to the sauce and let them simmer together for about 10 minutes.
- Serve: Serve the meatballs and sauce over a bed of spaghetti. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 550kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 50g

Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
Description
This classic spaghetti and meatballs dish features tender, homemade meatballs simmered in a savoury marinara sauce, served over al dente spaghetti. It's a perfect balance of flavours, with a satisfying taste that combines the richness of the meat with the acidity of the sauce.