7 Easy Spaghetti Meatball Recipes: Elevate Your Pasta Game

“Delectable Variations of Spaghetti Meatballs to Satisfy Every Palate”

Spaghetti and meatballs – a classic combination that has stood the test of time and captured the hearts of food lovers all around the world. The tender Spaghetti Meatballs, savory tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti come together to create a dish that never fails to please.

In this article, we’ll explore seven tantalizing spaghetti meatball recipes that are sure to elevate your pasta game. From traditional Italian-style to creative twists with various proteins and flavors, these recipes will leave your taste buds in awe and craving for more. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s embark on a culinary journey through the world of mouthwatering spaghetti meatballs.

Classic Italian-Style Spaghetti Meatballs: A Taste of Tradition

We begin with the timeless classic – Classic Italian-Style Spaghetti Meatballs. This recipe pays homage to the origins of the dish, combining succulent meatballs, tangy tomato sauce, and al dente spaghetti for a comforting and satisfying meal that takes you straight to the heart of Italy.

Ingredients

For the Spaghetti Meatballs:

1 pound ground beef (or a combination of beef, pork, and veal for an authentic touch)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg, lightly beaten
1/4 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for frying

For the Tomato Sauce:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Spaghetti:

1 pound spaghetti
Salt for the pasta water

Instructions

For the Spaghetti Meatballs:

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, finely chopped fresh parsley, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, lightly beaten egg, milk, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Mix the ingredients until well combined and shape the mixture into meatballs, about the size of golf balls.
Step 3: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs to the skillet and cook until they are browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.

For the Tomato Sauce:

Step 1: In the same skillet used to cook the meatballs, add more olive oil if needed and sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes translucent.
Step 2: Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute, until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step 3: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes, along with the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Simmer the sauce on low heat for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.

For the Spaghetti:

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches the desired level of doneness. Remember to keep the pasta al dente for the perfect texture.
Step 2: Drain the spaghetti and return it to the pot.

Assembly

Step 1: Pour a generous amount of the tomato sauce over the cooked spaghetti and toss to coat the pasta evenly.
Step 2: Place the Spaghetti Meatballs on top of the sauced spaghetti, and if desired, sprinkle some additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top for added flavor and presentation.
Step 3: Serve the Classic Italian-Style Spaghetti Meatballs hot, and savor each delicious bite of this timeless favorite.

Turkey and Spinach Spaghetti Meatballs: A Healthier Twist

For those seeking a healthier alternative without compromising on taste, Turkey and Spinach Spaghetti Meatballs is the perfect choice. These nutritious meatballs are packed with lean ground turkey and vibrant spinach, making them a wholesome and delicious delight.

Ingredients

For the Spaghetti Meatballs:

1 pound ground turkey
1 cup finely chopped fresh spinach
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
1 egg, lightly beaten
1/4 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for frying

For the Tomato Sauce:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Whole Wheat Spaghetti:

1 pound whole wheat spaghetti
Salt for the pasta water

Instructions

For the Spaghetti Meatballs:

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, chopped fresh spinach, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, lightly beaten egg, milk, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Mix the ingredients until well combined and shape the mixture into meatballs, slightly smaller than the classic Italian-style meatballs.
Step 3: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the turkey and spinach meatballs to the skillet and cook until they are browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.

For the Tomato Sauce:

Step 1: In the same skillet used to cook the meatballs, add more olive oil if needed and sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes translucent.
Step 2: Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute, until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step 3: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes, along with the dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Simmer the sauce on low heat for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.

For the Whole Wheat Spaghetti:

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches the desired level of doneness. Whole wheat pasta tends to take slightly longer to cook than regular pasta, so be sure to check the instructions on the package.
Step 2: Drain the spaghetti and return it to the pot.

Assembly

Step 1: Pour a generous amount of the tomato sauce over the cooked whole wheat spaghetti and toss to coat the pasta evenly.
Step 2: Place the turkey and spinach meatballs on top of the sauced spaghetti, and for an extra touch of green, garnish with some additional chopped fresh spinach.
Step 3: Serve the Turkey and Spinach Meatballs with Whole Wheat Spaghetti for a wholesome and flavorful meal that will satisfy both your taste buds and your health-conscious mind.

Asian-Inspired Pork Spaghetti Meatballs with Ginger Soy Noodles: An Exotic Delight

Prepare your taste buds for a burst of Asian-inspired flavors with the Asian-Inspired Pork Spaghetti Meatballs with Ginger Soy Noodles. These meatballs are infused with aromatic ginger and soy sauce, creating a delightful twist on the traditional spaghetti dish.

Ingredients

For the Spaghetti Meatballs:

1 pound ground pork
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon finely chopped green onions
1 egg, lightly beaten
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying

For the Ginger Soy Noodles:

1 pound spaghetti
Salt for the pasta water
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
Sesame seeds and additional green onions for garnish

Instructions

For the Spaghetti Meatballs:

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, minced garlic, freshly grated ginger, sesame oil, finely chopped green onions, lightly beaten egg, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Mix the ingredients until well combined and shape the mixture into meatballs, slightly smaller than the classic Italian-style meatballs.
Step 3: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the Asian-inspired pork meatballs to the skillet and cook until they are browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.

For the Ginger Soy Noodles:

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches the desired level of doneness. Drain the noodles and return them to the pot.
Step 2: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, freshly grated ginger, minced garlic, and finely chopped green onions.
Step 3: Pour the ginger soy sauce over the cooked spaghetti and toss to coat the noodles evenly.
Step 4: To serve, arrange the Asian-inspired pork meatballs on top of the ginger soy noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and additional chopped green onions for a beautiful presentation.
Step 5: Enjoy the burst of flavors as you savor each mouthful of the Asian-Inspired Pork Meatballs with Ginger Soy Noodles. This dish is a true fusion of cuisines, and it will leave you craving more.

Greek-Style Lamb Spaghetti Meatballs with Lemon Orzo: A Taste of the Mediterranean

Transport yourself to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean with the Greek-Style Lamb Meatballs with Lemon Orzo. These meatballs are infused with the traditional flavors of Greece, while the lemon orzo provides a refreshing and zesty complement to the dish.

Ingredients

For the Spaghetti Meatballs:

1 pound ground lamb
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 egg, lightly beaten
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for frying

For the Lemon Orzo:

1 cup orzo pasta
Salt for the pasta water
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

For the Spaghetti Meatballs:

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground lamb, breadcrumbs, crumbled feta cheese, finely chopped fresh parsley, minced garlic, dried oregano, lightly beaten egg, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Mix the ingredients until well combined and shape the mixture into meatballs, slightly smaller than the classic Italian-style meatballs.
Step 3: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Greek-style lamb meatballs to the skillet and cook until they are browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.

For the Lemon Orzo:

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches the desired level of doneness. Drain the orzo and return it to the pot.
Step 2: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, finely chopped fresh parsley, crumbled feta cheese, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Pour the lemon dressing over the cooked orzo and toss to coat the pasta evenly.

Assembly

Step 1: Serve the Greek-style lamb meatballs on a bed of lemon orzo, and if desired, garnish with additional chopped fresh parsley and feta cheese.
Step 2: Savor the enticing flavors of Greece as you enjoy each bite of the Greek-Style Lamb Meatballs with Lemon Orzo. This dish is a perfect balance of tangy and savory, transporting you to the idyllic Mediterranean shores.

Swedish Spaghetti Meatballs with Lingonberry Sauce: A Nordic Delight

Take a culinary trip to the Nordic region with the Swedish Spaghetti Meatballs with Lingonberry Sauce. These meatballs are known for their distinct blend of spices and are perfectly complemented by the sweet and tangy lingonberry sauce.

Ingredients

For the Spaghetti Meatballs:

1 pound ground beef (or a combination of beef and pork for a traditional taste)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup sour cream
1 egg, lightly beaten
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
Butter for frying

For the Lingonberry Sauce:

1 cup lingonberry jam (substitute with cranberry sauce if lingonberry jam is not available)
1/4 cup beef broth
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes:

1 1/2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
Salt for the boiling water
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

For the Spaghetti Meatballs:

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, milk, sour cream, lightly beaten egg, ground allspice, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Mix the ingredients until well combined and shape the mixture into meatballs, slightly smaller than the classic Italian-style meatballs.
Step 3: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the Swedish meatballs to the skillet and cook until they are browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.

For the Lingonberry Sauce:

Step 1: In the same skillet used to cook the meatballs, add the lingonberry jam, beef broth, heavy cream, ground allspice, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Stir the mixture until the lingonberry jam is fully melted and the sauce is well combined. Let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.

For the Mashed Potatoes:

Step 1: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the peeled and cut Yukon gold potatoes and cook until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
Step 3: Add the butter and milk to the potatoes, and using a potato masher, mash the potatoes until they reach the desired creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assembly

Step 1: Serve the Swedish meatballs on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, and generously drizzle the lingonberry sauce on top.
Step 2: Enjoy the comforting and delightful flavors of the Swedish Meatballs with Lingonberry Sauce. This dish is a Nordic masterpiece that will transport you to the enchanting landscapes of Scandinavia.

Cajun Shrimp Spaghetti Meatballs with Spicy Tomato Sauce: A Creole Adventure

Get ready for a Creole adventure with the Cajun Shrimp Spaghetti Meatballs with Spicy Tomato Sauce. These zesty meatballs pack a punch with Cajun spices, and the spicy tomato sauce adds a flavorful kick to this dish.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Spaghetti Meatballs:

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup finely chopped green bell pepper
1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for frying

For the Spicy Tomato Sauce:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your desired level of spiciness)
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Spaghetti:

1 pound spaghetti
Salt for the pasta water

Instructions

For the Shrimp Spaghetti Meatballs:

Step 1: In a food processor, pulse the peeled and deveined shrimp until they are finely chopped but not pureed.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, breadcrumbs, finely chopped green bell pepper, finely chopped red bell pepper, minced garlic, lightly beaten egg, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Mix the ingredients until well combined and shape the mixture into meatballs, slightly smaller than the classic Italian-style meatballs.
Step 4: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Cajun shrimp meatballs to the skillet and cook until they are cooked through and slightly browned on the outside. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.

For the Spicy Tomato Sauce:

Step 1: In the same skillet used to cook the shrimp meatballs, add more olive oil if needed and sauté the finely chopped onion until it becomes translucent.
Step 2: Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute, until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step 3: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes, along with the Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Simmer the sauce on low heat for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.

For the Spaghetti:

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches the desired level of doneness. Drain the spaghetti and return it to the pot.

Assembly

Step 1: Pour a generous amount of the spicy tomato sauce over the cooked spaghetti and toss to coat the pasta evenly.
Step 2: Place the Cajun shrimp meatballs on top of the sauced spaghetti, and for an extra kick, drizzle some additional spicy tomato sauce over the meatballs.
Step 3: Prepare yourself for a Creole adventure as you savor the bold flavors of the Cajun Shrimp Meatballs with Spicy Tomato Sauce. This dish is an explosion of spices that will transport you to the heart of Louisiana.

Vegan Lentil Spaghetti Meatballs with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce: A Plant-Based Delight

For our plant-based friends, we have a delightful treat – Vegan Lentil Spaghetti Meatballs with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce. These meatballs are made with hearty lentils and flavorful herbs, while the roasted red pepper sauce adds a touch of sweetness and smokiness to the dish.

Ingredients

For the Lentil Spaghetti Meatballs:

1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown), drained and cooled
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional, for added umami flavor)
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for baking

For the Roasted Red Pepper Sauce:

2 large red bell peppers
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Spaghetti:

1 pound spaghetti
Salt for the pasta water

Instructions

For the Lentil Spaghetti Meatballs:

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, mash the cooked and cooled lentils until they form a coarse paste.
Step 2: Add the breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, finely chopped fresh parsley, dried oregano, ground cumin, nutritional yeast (if using), salt, and pepper to the lentil paste.
Step 3: Mix the ingredients until well combined and shape the mixture into meatballs, slightly smaller than the classic Italian-style meatballs.
Step 4: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the lentil meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs to lightly coat them.
Step 5: Bake the lentil meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they are slightly browned and firm to the touch.

For the Roasted Red Pepper Sauce:

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Cut the red bell peppers in half, remove the seeds and membranes, and place them cut-side down on a baking sheet.
Step 2: Roast the red bell peppers in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the skin is blistered and charred.
Step 3: Remove the roasted red bell peppers from the oven and transfer them to a bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the peppers steam for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to peel the skin off.
Step 4: Peel the skin off the roasted red bell peppers and finely chop the flesh.
Step 5: In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.
Step 6: Add the minced garlic to the saucepan and continue to sauté for another minute, until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step 7: Pour in the diced tomatoes, along with the roasted red bell peppers, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Step 8: Simmer the sauce on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.

For the Spaghetti:

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches the desired level of doneness. Drain the spaghetti and return it to the pot.

Assembly

Step 1: Pour a generous amount of the roasted red pepper sauce over the cooked spaghetti and toss to coat the pasta evenly.
Step 2: Arrange the vegan lentil meatballs on top of the sauced spaghetti.
Step 3: Savor the delightful flavors of the Vegan Lentil Meatballs with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce. This plant-based dish proves that meatless doesn’t mean tasteless.

From the classic Italian-style Spaghetti Meatballs to the exotic Cajun and Creole-inspired variations, these seven spaghetti meatball recipes have taken us on a culinary journey around the world. Each recipe offers a unique and delectable twist on the beloved dish, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you prefer traditional flavors or want to experiment with different cuisines, these recipes will elevate your pasta game and leave you craving more. So, gather your ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and prepare to savor the mouthwatering goodness of spaghetti meatballs like never before. Click here and here to see another interesting recipes. Happy cooking and bon appétit!