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Creamy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

Creamy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe for Cozy Nights

A delightful Creamy Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe that brings warmth and comfort to cozy nights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 large Egg Binds the meatball mixture
  • 3 tbsp Fresh Parsley Add freshness; substitute with basil or cilantro
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano Enhances flavor; use Italian seasoning as an alternative
  • 1 tsp Salt Seasoning for meatballs, adjust to taste
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Provides heat; omit for low-sodium diets
  • 10 cloves Minced Garlic Adjust quantity based on taste preference
  • 1/4 cup Water Adds moisture; can be substituted with broth
  • 3 tbsp Tomato Paste Intensifies flavor and color
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Forms the base of meatballs
  • 1 lb Ground Pork Forms the base of meatballs
  • 1 cup Italian-style Bread Crumbs Adds texture and helps bind meatballs
  • 1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano Cheese Enhances flavor and richness
For the Sauce
  • 3 tbsp Butter Used for sautéing onions
  • 1 small Yellow Onion Provides base flavor in sauce
  • 3 cups Marinara Sauce Base of the creamy sauce
  • 1/2 tsp Sugar Balances acidity in sauce; optional
  • 1 ½ cups Heavy Cream Creates creamy texture; substitute with half-and-half
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Boosts garlic flavor
  • 1 tsp Sweet Paprika Adds mild warmth and color
  • To taste Salt Essential for enhancing all flavors
  • To taste Pepper Essential for enhancing all flavors
For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Spaghetti Main pasta; any pasta can be swapped

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Mixing bowl
  • skillet
  • Large pot
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the egg, chopped parsley, tomato paste, oregano, salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Mix in the ground meats, breadcrumbs, and grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, ensuring it's well combined without overworking. Roll the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter, and place them on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, until they're golden brown and cooked through.
  2. While the meatballs are baking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add three tablespoons of butter. Once melted, sauté the diced onion for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Add in the minced garlic, cooking for another minute until aromatic. Pour in the marinara sauce and let it simmer gently on low heat while seasoning with a sprinkle of sugar, salt, and pepper.
  3. After simmering the marinara sauce for about 5 minutes, slowly stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to gently simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  4. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Break the spaghetti in half and add it to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Just before draining, reserve a cup of the pasta water.
  5. Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain it well and add it directly to the creamy marinara sauce in the skillet. Toss the pasta in the sauce for about 5 minutes over medium heat, allowing it to absorb the creamy goodness. Gently fold in the baked meatballs, ensuring they’re coated in that delightful sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

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