Homemade Spaghetti and Meatballs

Classic homemade spaghetti and meatballs with rich red sauce and tender, flavorful meatballs. This Italian pasta recipe features a homemade tomato and herb sauce, baked meatballs, and perfectly cooked spaghetti. Perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or special occasions, this recipe brings authentic Italian flavors to your table.

Ingredients

Basic Red Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• ½ cup diced sweet yellow onion
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 6-ounce can tomato paste
• 6 ounces medium to full-bodied red wine (same can as tomato paste)
• 28-ounce can San Marzano whole peeled tomatoes
• 28 ounces water (same can as tomatoes)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• ¼ cup torn fresh basil
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 pound spaghetti

Meatballs:

• 2 eggs
• 1 pound 85–90% lean ground beef
• 1 pound ground mild or hot Italian sausage
• ½ cup grated Parmesan (plus extra for serving)
• ½ cup Italian seasoned panko-style breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup fresh chopped parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

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Instructions

Making the Red Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and onion, and cook, stirring, until onions are soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Stir in tomato paste, then add the red wine (fill the tomato paste can with wine for exact measurement).
4. Add the San Marzano tomatoes and water (fill empty tomato can with water). Use a wooden spoon to crush the whole tomatoes against the side of the pot.
5. Stir in parsley, basil, salt, pepper, and bay leaves. Increase heat as needed to bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat and simmer uncovered for 1 hour. Stir occasionally, pressing the tomatoes to help break them down.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning. Add sugar if the sauce tastes too acidic.

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Preparing the Meatballs

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs lightly. Add ground beef, sausage, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, parsley, salt, pepper, and garlic. Mix well with your hands until combined.
3. Form meatballs using a 1½-inch cookie scoop and place on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake 15–20 minutes or until cooked through (internal temperature 160°F / 71°C). Transfer to paper towels to drain excess grease.
5. After the sauce has simmered for 1 hour, remove bay leaves and add the cooked meatballs to the sauce. Simmer over low heat for an additional 30 minutes.

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Cooking the Spaghetti and Serving

1. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
2. Toss cooked spaghetti with the sauce and meatballs.
3. Serve hot, topped with additional Parmesan if desired.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic, comforting Italian flavors in every bite.
• Homemade sauce rich with fresh herbs and red wine.
• Meatballs are tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
• A perfect family meal that works for weeknights or special occasions.

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Tips

• Use San Marzano tomatoes for a naturally sweet, less acidic sauce.
• Don’t overmix the meatball ingredients; it keeps them tender.
• Simmer the meatballs in the sauce for extra flavor infusion.
• Make the sauce ahead and refrigerate—it tastes even better the next day.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Meat: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Pasta: Serve over fettuccine, penne, or zucchini noodles.
• Cheese: Add mozzarella inside the meatballs for a cheesy surprise.
• Herbs: Swap basil for oregano or thyme for a different flavor profile.

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FAQs

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta.

Can I cook the meatballs on the stovetop?
Yes, brown them in a skillet before adding to the sauce and simmering.

How long can leftovers last?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, they last 3–4 days.

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Serving

• Pair with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Sprinkle extra Parmesan or red pepper flakes before serving.

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Suggestions

• Make a double batch and freeze the meatballs for quick meals.
• Serve in individual bowls for a family-style dinner or large gathering.
• Leftover spaghetti and meatballs can be reheated in the sauce for best flavor retention.