16 Italian Meatball Spaghetti Recipe Get Ready To Indulge!
Published on: Mar 16, 2024
In addition to being a staple in Italian cuisine, spaghetti and meatballs is a beloved comfort food for many. The combination of hearty pasta and tender, flavorful meatballs is a crowd-pleaser and makes for a satisfying meal. While a simple dish, there are many variations of this classic recipe. However, this Italian meatball spaghetti recipe will show you how to make the perfect dish with a few key ingredients and techniques.
Main Ingredients: Meatballs, Ground Beef, Bread Crumbs, Grated Parmesan
Classic spaghetti and meatballs is a timeless dish that never fails to satisfy. The combination of tender meatballs and flavorful tomato sauce, served over a bed of al dente spaghetti, is a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a potluck with friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
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Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs
Main Ingredients: Spaghetti, Spaghetti Sauce, Sundried Tomatoes, Parmesan
If you're looking for a twist on the classic dish, try making baked spaghetti and meatballs. This version is made by layering cooked spaghetti, meatballs, and sauce in a baking dish, then topping it with cheese and baking it in the oven. The result is a delicious and comforting casserole that is perfect for feeding a large group.
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Spaghetti and Meatballs Stuffed Pizza
Main Ingredients: Spaghetti, Pasta Sauce, Meatballs, Pizza Dough
For a truly unique take on spaghetti and meatballs, try making a stuffed pizza. This recipe combines all the flavors of the classic dish, but instead of serving it over pasta, it is stuffed inside a pizza crust. The end result is a delicious and hearty meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
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Oven Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs
Main Ingredients: Spaghetti, Pasta Sauce, Water, Olive Oil, Garlic Paste
If you're short on time and don't want to stand over the stove, try making oven-baked spaghetti and meatballs. This recipe is made by baking the meatballs and sauce in the oven, then adding the cooked spaghetti and baking it all together. The result is a hands-off and delicious meal that is perfect for busy weeknights.
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Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs
Main Ingredients: Spaghetti, Tomato, Dried Tomatoes, Parmesan Cheese
Another great way to switch up the classic dish is by making baked spaghetti and meatballs. This version is made by baking the meatballs in the oven, then adding them to the cooked spaghetti and sauce and baking it all together. This method allows the flavors to meld together and creates a delicious and comforting meal.
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Spaghetti Sushi
Main Ingredients: Spaghetti, Marinara Sauce, Ricotta Cheese, Grated
If you're feeling adventurous, try making spaghetti sushi. This unique take on the classic dish involves rolling cooked spaghetti and meatballs in a sheet of seaweed, then slicing it into bite-sized pieces. It may sound unusual, but the combination of flavors and textures is surprisingly delicious.
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Abruzzese Italian Meatballs and Spaghetti
Main Ingredients: Italian Meatballs, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Tomatoes On
Abruzzese Italian meatballs and spaghetti is a regional version of the classic dish that originated in the Abruzzo region of Italy. The meatballs are made with a combination of beef and pork, and the sauce is a simple and flavorful combination of tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. This recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a truly authentic Italian dish.
For a hearty and comforting twist on spaghetti and meatballs, try making Italian meatball soup. This recipe combines tender meatballs, pasta, and a flavorful broth for a delicious and filling meal. Plus, it's perfect for those cold winter nights when you want something warm and comforting to eat.
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Mushrooms and Zucchini Bolognese with Italian Style...
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, White Onion, White Mushrooms, White
If you're looking for a healthier version of spaghetti and meatballs, try making mushrooms and zucchini bolognese with Italian-style meatballs. This recipe uses lean ground turkey for the meatballs and swaps out traditional pasta for zucchini noodles. The result is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for anyone watching their carb intake.
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Baked Italian Meatballs
Main Ingredients: Meatballs, Marinara Sauce, Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
Baked Italian meatballs are a classic dish that is perfect for any occasion. These meatballs are made with a combination of beef and pork, as well as flavorful herbs and spices. They are then baked in the oven, which helps to keep them moist and tender. Serve them over your favorite pasta for a delicious and satisfying meal.
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Italian Meatball Calzones
Main Ingredients: Hot Italian Sausage, Ground Sirloin, Seasoned Bread
If you're craving something different from the traditional spaghetti and meatballs, try making Italian meatball calzones. This recipe combines tender meatballs, flavorful sauce, and gooey cheese, all wrapped up in a pizza dough crust. These calzones are perfect for a quick and easy dinner or for serving at a party.
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Italian Meatball Tortellini
Main Ingredients: Meatballs, Chicken Broth, Spaghetti Sauce, Cheese
For a hearty and satisfying twist on spaghetti and meatballs, try making Italian meatball tortellini. This recipe combines tender meatballs, cheese tortellini, and a flavorful tomato sauce for a delicious and filling meal. It's perfect for when you want something a little more indulgent than your typical spaghetti and meatballs.
Frozen Italian meatball soup is a convenient and delicious way to enjoy spaghetti and meatballs. This recipe is made by freezing cooked meatballs and sauce in a freezer-safe bag, then adding them to a pot with broth and pasta when you're ready to eat. It's the perfect meal for those busy nights when you don't have time to cook.
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Chicken Meatballs Alfredo
Main Ingredients: Spaghetti, Meatballs, Ground Chicken, Fresh Parsley
If you're looking for a lighter version of spaghetti and meatballs, try making chicken meatballs Alfredo. This recipe uses ground chicken for the meatballs and swaps out traditional pasta for zucchini noodles. The creamy Alfredo sauce adds a delicious and indulgent touch to this healthier version of the classic dish.
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INSTANT POT ITALIAN MEATBALL SOUP
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Onion, Garlic Cloves, Large
If you have an Instant Pot, try making Italian meatball soup. This recipe is made by cooking the meatballs, pasta, and broth in the Instant Pot for a quick and easy meal. It's perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a meal on the table fast.
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Spinach and Mushroom Marinara with (or without)...
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Baby Spinach, White Mushrooms, Garlic, Diced
Spinach and mushroom marinara with or without meatballs is a delicious and nutritious twist on the classic dish. The sauce is made with spinach, mushrooms, and tomatoes, and can be served over traditional pasta or zucchini noodles for a healthier option. Add meatballs for a heartier meal, or leave them out for a vegetarian option.
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Baked Spaghetti with Sausage and Meatballs
Main Ingredients: Bulk Italian Sausage, Chopped Onion, Green Pepper
Baked spaghetti with sausage and meatballs is a delicious and hearty twist on the classic dish. This recipe combines ground sausage, meatballs, and a flavorful tomato sauce, all baked together with spaghetti and cheese. It's perfect for a family dinner or for feeding a crowd.
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Paleo Italian Meatball Soup (crock pot)
Main Ingredients: Meatball, Ground Italian Sausage, Coconut Flour, Flax
For a paleo-friendly version of spaghetti and meatballs, try making Italian meatball soup in your crockpot. This recipe uses ground turkey or chicken for the meatballs and a variety of veggies and herbs for a flavorful broth. It's a convenient and healthy option for those following a paleo diet.
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Ditalini Italian Soup for #SundaySupper
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Onions, Garlic, Diced Tomatoes
Ditalini Italian soup is a delicious and comforting twist on spaghetti and meatballs. This recipe is made with a variety of veggies, meatballs, and ditalini pasta, all simmered together in a flavorful broth. It's the perfect meal for a cozy Sunday dinner with family and friends.
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Healthy Crockpot Spaghetti
Main Ingredients: Spaghetti Sauce, Spaghetti, Meatballs, Water
If you're looking for a healthier version of spaghetti and meatballs, try making it in your crockpot. This recipe uses lean ground turkey for the meatballs and swaps out traditional pasta for spaghetti squash. The result is a delicious and nutritious meal that is perfect for those watching their carb intake or trying to eat healthier.
The Perfect Blend of Meat
Choosing the Right Meat
Ground beef, pork, and veal are the traditional meats used in Italian meatballs. However, you can also use a combination of these meats for a more complex flavor. It is important to use ground meat with a higher fat content to ensure tender and juicy meatballs. A ratio of 80% lean to 20% fat is ideal for this recipe.
Enhancing the Flavor
To add depth and flavor to the meatballs, garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning are essential. Grated parmesan cheese also adds a salty and nutty element to the meat mixture. For a spicy kick, crushed red pepper flakes can be added. Be sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly and evenly distribute them throughout the meat for a well-balanced flavor.
The Secret to Tender Meatballs
Breadcrumbs and Milk
The addition of breadcrumbs and milk to the meat mixture helps to keep the meatballs moist and tender. The breadcrumbs act as a binder, while the milk adds moisture. It is important to use fresh breadcrumbs rather than dried for best results. You can make your own by pulsing a few slices of bread in a food processor. As for the milk, whole milk is preferred for its higher fat content, but you can also use 2% or skim milk.
A Gentle Touch
When forming the meatballs, it is crucial to handle the mixture gently. Overworking the meat can result in tough and dense meatballs. Use a light touch when shaping the balls and avoid packing them too tightly. It is also important to refrigerate the meatballs for at least 30 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape.
Bringing it All Together
The Perfect Cooking Method
For this recipe, we will be using the browning and simmering method to cook the meatballs. This involves browning the meatballs in a pan before simmering them in a tomato sauce. This method helps to develop a rich and flavorful sauce while keeping the meatballs tender and juicy.
Serving Suggestions
While spaghetti is the traditional choice for this dish, you can also use other types of pasta such as linguine or fettuccine. For a healthier option, you can also serve the meatballs with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. Top the dish with some additional grated parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for a finishing touch.
With these tips and techniques, you can make the perfect Italian meatball spaghetti dish that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds. Remember, the key is to use quality ingredients and handle them with care. Now, it's time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking!