Go Back
+ servings
Spaghetti and Meatballs

Creamy Spaghetti and Meatballs for Ultimate Comfort Food Bliss

Indulge in creamy spaghetti and meatballs, a comforting dish perfect for family gatherings that will impress even the pickiest eaters.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 Large Egg Can substitute with a flax egg for vegan options.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Dried parsley can be used if fresh isn’t available.
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano Italian seasoning can also work in a pinch.
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust based on your dietary needs.
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Freshly cracked offers the best flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic is recommended over garlic powder.
  • 1/4 cup Water No substitutes needed.
  • 2 tbsp Tomato Paste Crushed tomatoes can be used for a chunkier texture.
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Feel free to use turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative.
  • 1/2 lb Ground Pork You can substitute with more ground beef if desired.
  • 1 cup Italian Bread Crumbs Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used as an alternative.
  • 1/4 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano Cheese Substitute with pecorino for a sharper bite.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Butter Olive oil can be a dairy-free alternative.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Shallots work well if you need a substitute.
  • 2 cups Marinara Sauce Using a high-quality option enhances flavors.
  • 1 tsp Sugar Omit if using a sweeter marinara.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half or coconut cream can be used for lighter or dairy-free options.
For Serving
  • 12 oz Spaghetti Other pasta types or even zucchini noodles can be delightful variations.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Skillet
  • Pot

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat one large egg and stir in chopped fresh parsley, tomato paste, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and water until well combined. Add ground beef and ground pork, followed by Italian bread crumbs. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are incorporated, then form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs.
  2. Bake the Meatballs: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the formed meatballs on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping the meatballs halfway through to ensure even cooking and a nice golden-brown crust.
  3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat until it sizzles. Add a chopped yellow onion, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Incorporate the remaining minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Create the Creamy Marinara Sauce: Pour in the marinara sauce and add a pinch of sugar to balance acidity. Stir well, allowing the sauce to come to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and mix in heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens slightly and is beautifully creamy.
  5. Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Reserve some pasta water, drain the spaghetti, and return it to the pot.
  6. Combine and Serve: Gently fold the baked meatballs into the creamy marinara sauce. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together to ensure the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze meatballs and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!