Sweetheart Meatballs with Spaghetti
Sweetheart Meatballs with Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food that brings together tender, juicy meatballs and perfectly cooked spaghetti in a rich tomato sauce. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also creates an unforgettable dining experience, making it perfect for romantic dinners or family gatherings. The delightful aroma and vibrant presentation will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Author: Jennifer
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-seasoned)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) San Marzano tomatoes, crushed or whole
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup red wine
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently until combined.
- Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent (about 4-5 minutes). Stir in minced garlic until fragrant (around 30 seconds).
- Add canned tomatoes (and red wine if using), season with salt and pepper, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente; drain well while reserving some pasta water.
- Toss cooked spaghetti with the sauce and serve topped with meatballs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (360g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For lighter meatballs, substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef. Add crushed red pepper flakes for spice or fresh basil for extra flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.