Unleashing a classic Italian delight - Spaghetti Sauce and Meatballs. This authentic recipe is simple to make yet yields an immensely flavorful result. The secret lies in the homemade sauce cooked from scratch and tender, juicy meatballs, infused with a blend of spices and herbs.
Our recipe uses common household ingredients with the exception of a few like ground meatloaf mix and corn flakes cereal. The meatloaf mix is a combination of ground beef, pork, and veal, which can be found in the meat section of most supermarkets. As for corn flakes cereal, it is used as a binder for the meatballs, absorbing the flavors and keeping the meatballs moist, and can be found in the breakfast aisle.
Essential Ingredients for Spaghetti Sauce and Meatballs
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes form the base of the spaghetti sauce, giving it a rich and tangy flavor.
Tomato paste: Used to thicken the sauce and enhance the tomato flavor.
Tomato sauce: Adds extra tomato flavor and moisture to the sauce.
Garlic: Garlic is essential in Italian cooking, providing a strong, pungent flavor.
Olive oil: Used to sauté the garlic, it also adds richness to the sauce.
Parmesan cheese: Gives a sharp and salty flavor to the meatballs.
Meatloaf mix: A combination of ground beef, pork, and veal that ensures juicy and flavorful meatballs.
Corn flakes cereal: Acts as a binder for the meatballs, keeping them moist and flavorful.
Eggs: Helps to bind the ingredients of the meatballs together.
Oregano, parsley, and basil: These herbs add depth and complexity to the flavors of both the sauce and meatballs.
One reader, Elsworth Burley says:
This spaghetti sauce and meatballs recipe is a game-changer! The sauce is rich and flavorful, and the meatballs are tender and juicy. The combination of herbs and spices creates a perfect harmony of flavors. It's a family favorite and always a hit at gatherings. Highly recommended!
Key Techniques for Making Spaghetti Sauce and Meatballs
How to prepare the spaghetti sauce: Combine the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, herbs, sugar, salt, garlic, olive oil, and red wine in a large pot. Cook over medium heat until bubbling, then simmer for at least one hour, stirring often.
How to make the meatballs: Combine the ground meatloaf mix, corn flakes, eggs, garlic, parmesan cheese, tomato paste, and seasonings in a large bowl. Mix well and form into 1½-inch meatballs. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until browned and cooked through, about 20 to 30 minutes.
How to serve: Drop the cooked meatballs into the hot spaghetti sauce and serve immediately.
How To Make Spaghetti Sauce and Meatballs
In case you’re looking for an easy spaghetti recipe, this pasta with flavorful and savory spaghetti sauce and meaty and umami-rich meatballs are for you.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Spaghetti Sauce:
- 28oztomatoes,chopped
- 6oztomato paste
- 8oztomato sauce
- 4tspdried oregano
- 2tspdried parsley
- 1tspdried basil
- 2tspwhite sugar
- ½tspsalt
- 6clovesgarlic,minced
- 2tbspolive oil
- ¼cupred wine
For Meatballs:
- 1¼lbsground meatloaf mix,beef, pork veal
- 1½cupscorn flakes cereal,crushed
- 3eggs
- 3clovesgarlic,minced
- ½cupparmesan cheese,grated
- 3tbsptomato paste
- 2tspdried oregano
- 2tbspdried parsley
- 1tbspwhite sugar
- ½tspgarlic salt
- ½tspground nutmeg
- ½tspground black pepper
Instructions
-
Combine the chopped tomatoes, 2 cans tomato paste, tomato sauce, 4 teaspoons oregano, 2 teaspoons parsley, basil, 2 teaspoons sugar, salt, 6 cloves garlic, olive oil, and red wine in a large, heavy pot.
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Cover, and cook over medium heat until bubbling. Uncover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for at least one hour, stirring often. Set aside.
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Preheat an oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray.
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Combine the meatloaf mix, corn flakes, eggs, garlic, Parmesan cheese, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried parsley, sugar, garlic salt, nutmeg, and black pepper in a large bowl.
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Mix well with a large fork. Form the meat mixture into 1½-inch firm balls. Place the meatballs on the prepared pan.
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Bake meatballs until browned and cooked though, about 20 to 30 minutes. Drop cooked meatballs into hot spaghetti sauce, and serve immediately.
Nutrition
- Calories: 242.56kcal
- Fat: 10.51g
- Saturated Fat: 3.51g
- Trans Fat: 0.01g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.11g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.23g
- Carbohydrates: 27.19g
- Fiber: 4.74g
- Sugar: 13.79g
- Protein: 11.51g
- Cholesterol: 88.41mg
- Sodium: 730.03mg
- Calcium: 227.68mg
- Potassium: 918.55mg
- Iron: 5.12mg
- Vitamin A: 187.49µg
- Vitamin C: 32.51mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Spaghetti and Meatballs
When forming the meatballs, try not to overwork the mixture as it can result in tough and dense meatballs. Instead, gently combine the ingredients until they are just mixed. This will ensure your meatballs are tender and juicy. Additionally, using a small ice cream scoop can help you create uniformly sized meatballs, which will cook evenly.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Spaghetti and Meatballs
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Multitask: While the sauce is simmering, prepare the meatballs to save time.
Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly chop garlic and herbs for the sauce and meatballs.
Organize your workspace: Keep all ingredients and utensils within reach to avoid wasting time searching for items.
Cook in batches: Cook the meatballs in batches to ensure they brown evenly and save time.
Invest in quality tools: Quality knives and kitchen tools can make prep work faster and more efficient.
Clean as you go: Wash and put away utensils and tools as you cook to keep your workspace organized and save time later.
Substitute Ingredients For Spaghetti Sauce and Meatballs Recipe
tomatoes - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute for fresh tomatoes in the sauce. They are convenient and have a similar texture and flavor when cooked.
tomato paste - Substitute with ketchup: Ketchup can be used as a substitute for tomato paste as it has a similar thickness and flavor. However, adjust the sugar content in the recipe accordingly.
tomato sauce - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes can be used as a substitute for tomato sauce. They provide a thicker consistency and can be blended to achieve a smoother texture.
dried oregano - Substitute with dried marjoram: Dried marjoram has a similar flavor profile to oregano and can be used as a substitute in the sauce.
dried parsley - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley can be used as a substitute for dried parsley, providing a vibrant flavor and color to the dish.
dried basil - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can be used as a substitute for dried basil, adding a slightly different but complementary flavor to the sauce.
white sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener instead of white sugar, adding a unique depth of flavor to the sauce.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a convenient option with a milder flavor.
olive oil - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil can be used as a substitute for olive oil in the sauce, providing a neutral flavor.
red wine - Substitute with balsamic vinegar: Balsamic vinegar can be used as a substitute for red wine, adding a rich and tangy flavor to the sauce.
ground meatloaf mix - Substitute with ground beef: Ground beef can be used as a substitute for meatloaf mix, providing a similar texture and flavor to the meatballs.
corn flakes cereal - Substitute with breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute for corn flakes cereal, providing a binding agent for the meatballs.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano cheese: Pecorino Romano cheese can be used as a substitute for Parmesan, offering a similar salty and nutty flavor to the meatballs.
tomato paste - Substitute with sundried tomato paste: Sun-dried tomato paste can be used as a substitute for regular tomato paste, adding a rich and concentrated flavor to the meatballs.
dried oregano - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can be used as a substitute for dried oregano, providing a slightly different but complementary flavor to the meatballs.
dried parsley - Substitute with fresh basil: Fresh basil can be used as a substitute for dried parsley, adding a fresh and aromatic flavor to the meatballs.
white sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a substitute for white sugar, adding a unique sweetness and depth of flavor to the meatballs.
garlic salt - Substitute with garlic powder and salt: A combination of garlic powder and salt can be used as a substitute for garlic salt, allowing for better control of the seasoning in the meatballs.
ground nutmeg - Substitute with ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon can be used as a substitute for nutmeg, providing a warm and aromatic flavor to the meatballs.
ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a substitute for black pepper, providing a milder and slightly different flavor to the meatballs.
Presentation Tips for Serving Spaghetti and Meatballs
Elevate the plating: When presenting this spaghetti sauce and meatballs, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing plate. Use a large, flat plate to showcase the dish, and arrange the spaghetti and meatballs in a visually appealing manner. Consider using fresh herbs or microgreens as a garnish to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate texture: Add a textural element to the dish by serving the spaghetti and meatballs on a bed of al dente spaghetti, ensuring the meatballs are evenly spaced and the sauce is generously drizzled over the top. This will create a visually appealing contrast and enhance the overall dining experience.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate. Ensure that the spaghetti is neatly twirled and the meatballs are evenly sized and placed strategically. Precision in plating demonstrates attention to detail and elevates the overall presentation of the dish.
Emphasize color contrast: Create visual interest by incorporating color contrast into the presentation. Consider using a white or lightly colored plate to make the rich red sauce and golden brown meatballs stand out. This contrast will draw attention to the dish and make it visually striking.
Highlight the sauce: Showcase the rich and flavorful spaghetti sauce by drizzling it artfully over the spaghetti and meatballs. The sauce should be the focal point of the dish, so ensure it is presented in a visually appealing manner, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the plate.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Spaghetti Sauce and Meatballs
- Large, heavy pot: This is used for cooking the spaghetti sauce. It should be able to hold a large volume of liquid and have a thick bottom to prevent burning.
- Baking sheet: A flat, metal sheet with raised edges used for baking the meatballs in the oven. It should be coated with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl used for combining the ingredients for the meatballs. It should be sturdy and deep enough to mix the ingredients thoroughly.
- Food processor: This can be used to finely chop the tomatoes and garlic for the spaghetti sauce, making the process quicker and more efficient.
- Large fork: A sturdy fork used for mixing the meatball ingredients together. It should be able to handle the thick mixture and mix it evenly.
Storing and Freezing Spaghetti Sauce and Meatballs
To store leftover spaghetti sauce, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate the sauce for up to 4-5 days.
For longer storage, freeze the spaghetti sauce in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label the containers with the date and contents. Frozen spaghetti sauce can be stored for up to 6 months.
To store leftover meatballs, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Refrigerate the meatballs for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the meatballs, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the meatballs to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Label the container with the date and contents. Frozen meatballs can be stored for up to 3 months.
When ready to use the frozen spaghetti sauce, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat the sauce in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
To reheat frozen meatballs, place them in a covered baking dish and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can add the frozen meatballs directly to the simmering spaghetti sauce and cook until heated through.
Pro tip: Portion the spaghetti sauce and meatballs into individual serving sizes before freezing for easy meal prep and quick reheating.
How to Reheat Leftover Spaghetti and Meatballs
Stovetop method: Transfer the leftover spaghetti sauce and meatballs to a large saucepan or pot. Cover and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is simmering and the meatballs are heated through, about 15-20 minutes. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of water or chicken broth to thin it out.
Oven method: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover spaghetti sauce and meatballs to an oven-safe dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the meatballs are heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of cooking to allow the meatballs to brown slightly.
Microwave method: Place the leftover spaghetti sauce and meatballs in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until the sauce is hot and the meatballs are heated through, about 3-5 minutes total.
Slow cooker method: Transfer the leftover spaghetti sauce and meatballs to a slow cooker. Cover and cook on low heat for 2-3 hours, or until the sauce is hot and the meatballs are heated through. This method is ideal if you want to reheat the dish while you're away or if you want to keep the sauce and meatballs warm for an extended period.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the sauce and meatballs occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent scorching. If the sauce seems too thick, add a small amount of water, chicken broth, or beef broth to thin it out and maintain the desired consistency.
Interesting Trivia About Spaghetti and Meatballs
The spaghetti sauce and meatballs recipe is a classic Italian dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It is a comforting and hearty meal that is perfect for feeding a crowd or for a cozy family dinner. The combination of rich tomato sauce and flavorful meatballs is a winning combination that never goes out of style. This dish is also versatile and can be customized to suit individual tastes, whether by adding extra spices or using different types of meat for the meatballs. It's a timeless recipe that brings people together and satisfies appetites.
The Economics of Homemade Spaghetti Sauce and Meatballs
The cost-effectiveness of this spaghetti sauce and meatballs recipe largely depends on the availability of ingredients and local market prices. The use of common pantry staples like tomatoes, garlic, and dried herbs can make it budget-friendly. However, the inclusion of red wine and ground meatloaf mix may increase the overall cost. Considering the yield and versatility of the dish, it can be a reasonable option for a family meal. On a scale of 1-10, the verdict for this recipe is 8. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25.
Is Spaghetti and Meatballs Healthy or Unhealthy?
The spaghetti sauce and meatballs recipe, while delicious, may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:
- The recipe contains a significant amount of red meat (ground meatloaf mix), which is high in saturated fat and has been linked to increased risk of heart disease and certain cancers when consumed in excess.
- The use of corn flakes cereal as a binding agent in the meatballs adds extra calories and refined carbohydrates to the dish.
- The recipe calls for a considerable amount of cheese and olive oil, both of which are high in fat and calories.
- The sugar content in the sauce and meatballs may be higher than necessary, contributing to added calories and potentially offsetting the nutritional value of the tomato-based ingredients.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace some or all of the ground meatloaf mix with lean ground turkey or chicken to reduce the saturated fat content.
- Use whole-grain breadcrumbs or rolled oats instead of corn flakes cereal to increase the fiber content and reduce refined carbohydrates.
- Reduce the amount of cheese used in the meatballs, or opt for a lower-fat variety like part-skim mozzarella.
- Decrease the sugar content in both the sauce and meatballs, allowing the natural sweetness of the tomatoes to shine through.
- Incorporate more vegetables into the sauce, such as diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini, to increase the nutrient density of the dish.
- Use a controlled amount of olive oil in the sauce, and consider baking the meatballs on a wire rack to allow excess fat to drain away during cooking.
Editor's Opinion on This Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
This spaghetti sauce and meatballs recipe is a classic and comforting dish that is sure to please. The combination of rich tomato sauce, aromatic herbs, and flavorful meatballs creates a delicious and satisfying meal. The slow simmering of the sauce allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a robust and hearty sauce. The meatballs, with their blend of seasonings and cheese, add a savory element to the dish. Overall, this recipe is a timeless favorite that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends.
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Why trust this Spaghetti Sauce and Meatballs Recipe:
This recipe is a trusted classic, using only the freshest tomatoes, garlic, and herbs for the sauce. The meatballs are made with a blend of ground meatloaf mix, parmesan cheese, and corn flakes cereal, ensuring a perfect texture and flavor. The combination of tomato paste and red wine adds depth to the sauce, while the use of olive oil and garlic infuses rich, authentic Italian flavors. With these high-quality ingredients and detailed instructions, this recipe guarantees a delicious and satisfying meal.
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