Description
Looking for the ultimate comfort meal? This Creamy Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe is a rich and satisfying twist on a classic dish! Juicy, flavorful meatballs are simmered in a velvety, creamy tomato sauce and served over perfectly cooked spaghetti. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Creamy Tomato Sauce:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Spaghetti:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- Water & salt (for boiling pasta)
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper until just combined.
- Roll into 1-inch meatballs and place on a plate.
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the meatballs for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside (they will finish cooking in the sauce).
Step 2: Make the Creamy Tomato Sauce
- In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and sauté the onion until soft.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then add basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until smooth.
Step 3: Finish Cooking the Meatballs
- Return the seared meatballs to the sauce. Cover and let them simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti
- Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 5: Combine & Serve
- Toss the cooked spaghetti into the sauce, coating evenly.
- Serve with extra Parmesan, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of black pepper.
Notes
Use Fresh Parmesan – It melts better and adds richer flavor than pre-grated versions.
Don’t Overwork the Meatballs – Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
Sear First, Then Simmer – Browning the meatballs before adding them to the sauce locks in flavor.
Adjust the Sauce Consistency – If too thick, add a splash of pasta water; if too thin, simmer longer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: Italian-American