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Spaghetti Meatball Recipe

A comforting classic dish of spaghetti and meatballs simmered in rich marinara sauce, perfect for family meals or cozy nights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 medium sweet onion Provides a subtle sweetness and depth.
  • 3-4 cloves garlic Adds an aromatic base.
  • 1 large egg Creates structure and richness.
  • 1 pound lean ground beef Provides a hearty base.
  • 1/4 cup milk Adds creaminess.
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Helps provide the desired meatball consistency.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme Contributes an earthy taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher salt Enhances flavors.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper Provides a warm kick.
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley For freshness and color.
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese Adds savory richness.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Deepens umami flavor.
  • 1/4 cup flour Used for dredging to add crispiness.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Essential for frying.
For the Sauce
  • 2 cups marinara sauce The rich sauce that brings the dish together.
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar Enhances flavor.
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces whole wheat spaghetti A hearty and nutritious pasta option.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a deep skillet and sauté the onions and garlic for 3-4 minutes, then set aside.
  2. In a small bowl, mix milk, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, then let sit for 5 minutes.
  3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, sautéed onion and garlic, parsley, Parmesan, Worcestershire sauce, and the milk-breadcrumb mixture. Mix well.
  4. Form the mixture into 1-tablespoon meatballs and roll in flour.
Cooking
  1. Heat remaining oil in the skillet and cook meatballs until golden on all sides.
  2. Add marinara sauce and balsamic vinegar, then cook over low heat for 12-15 minutes.
  3. Meanwhile, cook spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions.
Serving
  1. Drain spaghetti and stir meatballs into the sauce. Garnish with parsley and Parmesan before serving.

Notes

For an extra flavor boost, let the meatball mixture rest for a few minutes before forming. Use lean ground beef to reduce fat without sacrificing flavor.