Spaghetti Meatballs and Tomato Basil Sauce

Dive into the comforting flavors of classic Italian cuisine with this hearty Spaghetti Meatballs and Tomato Basil Sauce recipe. Juicy, flavorful meatballs made with a blend of ground beef and pork are seasoned with garlic, onion, and parmesan and gently seared to perfection. They’re then simmered in a rich, aromatic tomato basil sauce infused with fresh basil, oregano, and a hint of sweetness. Paired with al dente spaghetti, this dish strikes the ultimate balance between robust and refreshing flavors. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this timeless recipe is easy to prepare and delivers an authentic homemade taste. Garnish with extra parmesan and fresh basil for a satisfying and visually stunning finish.

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams ground beef
• 250 grams ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 0.25 cup milk
• 4 pieces garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 1 large egg
• 0.5 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 800 grams canned crushed tomatoes
• 0.5 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 400 grams spaghetti
• 4 liters water
• 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)

Directions

Step 1

In a small bowl, soak the breadcrumbs in milk for 5 minutes until softened.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, soaked breadcrumbs, minced garlic, diced onion, egg, parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon salt, and 0.5 teaspoon black pepper.

Step 3

Mix gently with clean hands until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 4

Form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs, setting them aside on a plate.

Step 5

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the meatballs in batches until browned on all sides (about 2-3 minutes per side). Remove the meatballs and set aside.

Step 6

Using the same skillet, add the remaining minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 7

Add the canned crushed tomatoes, sugar, dried oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, and 0.5 teaspoon black pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 8

Bring the sauce to a simmer over low heat, then return the meatballs to the skillet. Cover and let cook for 20-25 minutes, occasionally stirring, until the meatballs are fully cooked and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 9

Stir in the fresh basil leaves and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 10

Meanwhile, in a large pot, bring 4 liters of water to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt and the spaghetti. Cook according to packaging instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).

Step 11

Drain the pasta and divide it among serving plates or a large serving bowl.

Step 12

Spoon the meatballs and tomato basil sauce over the spaghetti.

Step 13

Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.

Step 14

Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(5774.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3546.3

Total Fat 199.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 71.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.6g
Cholesterol 821.9mg	0%
Sodium 14455.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 232.4g	0%
Dietary Fiber 16.4g	0%
Total Sugars 23.2g
Protein 215.8g	0%

Vitamin D 80.6IU	0%
Calcium 1178.1mg	0%
Iron 28.8mg	0%
Potassium 2024.4mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 50.0%

Protein: 24.1%

Carbs: 25.9%