Description

Looking for the ultimate comfort food? This Creamy Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe takes the classic to the next level with a rich, velvety sauce that clings to every noodle and juicy meatball. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends, it’s a dish the whole family will crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef or ground chicken
1 egg
¼ cup breadcrumbs
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper

For the Creamy Tomato Sauce:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 tsp sugar
½ tsp dried basil
¼ tsp chili flakes (optional)
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

12 oz spaghetti
Salt for pasta water

For Garnish:

Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Extra parmesan cheese for serving

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, parmesan, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing.
Form into 1-inch meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
6. While meatballs bake, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
7. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
8. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Tomato Sauce
9. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
10. Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft.
11. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
12. Pour in crushed tomatoes, sugar, basil, and chili flakes (if using).
13. Simmer for 7–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
14. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream.
15. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
16. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if sauce is too thick.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Sauce, and Meatballs
17. Add cooked spaghetti directly into the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
18. Gently nestle the meatballs into the pan with the pasta.
19. Simmer for 2–3 more minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve
20. Plate the creamy spaghetti and meatballs in bowls.
21. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil and extra parmesan.
22. Serve hot and enjoy every creamy, savory bite.

Notes

Use Fresh Herbs – Parsley and basil add vibrant flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Keep it al dente to hold up in the sauce.
Balance the Sauce – A touch of sugar enhances the tomato flavor.
Make It Lighter – Use half-and-half or light cream for a lower-fat version.
Use Leftover Pasta Water – It helps thicken and emulsify the sauce.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: American-Italian