My sister-in-law took one bite and came running over to me asking for the recipe

Baked Meatball & Spaghetti: A Comfort Classic Reimagined

Sinking your fork into a plate of baked meatballs and spaghetti is like wrapping your soul in a warm, comforting hug. This timeless Italian-American favorite pairs juicy meatballs with perfectly cooked spaghetti and a bold, savory tomato sauce that tastes like it’s straight from Nonna’s kitchen. Ideal for family dinners, date nights, or satisfying those deep cravings—this dish brings comfort and joy to every table.

Let’s gather the essentials and dive into a culinary experience that’s both simple and unforgettable.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

Ground beef
Bread crumbs
Milk
Parmesan cheese
Egg
Fresh parsley
Salt and pepper

For the Sauce:

Crushed tomatoes
Onion
Garlic
Fresh or dried basil
Olive oil
Salt
Black pepper
Red pepper flakes
Sugar

Other Ingredients:

Olive oil (for baking and cooking)
Spaghetti pasta

Making the Meatballs

1. Combine the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, add the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, chopped parsley, and a dash of salt and pepper. Mix gently until everything is well blended—don’t overwork the meat.

2. Form the Meatballs

Using clean hands, shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs. Keeping them uniform ensures even baking.

3. Bake to Perfection

Place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil for added crisp and color. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and fully cooked.

Cooking the Sauce

1. Sauté the Base

In a large pot or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are soft and aromatic.

2. Simmer and Season

Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir in basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. Add a pinch of sugar to round out the acidity. Let the sauce simmer for 15–20 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.

Bringing It All Together

1. Cook the Spaghetti

Boil your spaghetti noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Be sure to salt your water—it makes a world of difference in taste.

2. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Once the noodles are drained and the sauce is ready, toss the spaghetti in the tomato sauce, coating every strand for maximum flavor.

3. Serve and Enjoy

Top the sauced pasta with your freshly baked meatballs. Garnish with extra Parmesan and a few fresh basil leaves. Serve hot and enjoy a dish that’s rich, hearty, and full of love.

This dish may be traditional, but every bite feels brand new. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or savoring a quiet night in, baked meatballs with spaghetti never go out of style.

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