Classic Spaghetti with Savory Meatballs and Tomato Sauce
A simple, comforting plate of spaghetti topped with tender meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce. The pasta is cooked until perfectly soft and layered with a warm, slow-simmered sauce that coats every strand. Juicy meatballs sit right on top, soaking up the flavor while a fresh basil leaf adds a light, aromatic finish. It’s the kind of meal that feels satisfying, cozy, and perfect for a relaxed dinner at home.
- Total time
- 50 min
- Servings
- 4
- Calories
- 520
- Protein
- 28g
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 ½ teaspoon dried basil
- 2 cups tomato sauce (or marinara sauce)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- 1 Optional: extra grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- 1
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
- 2
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
- 3
Mix everything gently with your hands until the ingredients are evenly combined.
- 4
Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about the size of a golf ball.
- 5
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- 6
Place the meatballs into the skillet and cook them for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides.
- 7
Pour the tomato sauce over the meatballs and reduce the heat to low.
- 8
Let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for about 15 minutes, allowing them to finish cooking and soak up the flavor.
- 9
Place a portion of spaghetti onto each plate.
- 10
Spoon the sauce and meatballs over the pasta.
- 11
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and sprinkle with extra parmesan cheese if you like before serving.
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