Name: Old Fashioned Spaghetti Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup bread crumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup finely chopped onion; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp sugar; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish); Salt, to taste; 1 lb spaghetti; 1 tbsp salt (for pasta water)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Old Fashioned Spaghetti recipe takes a timeless Italian classic and brings it right into your kitchen. With a savory, perfectly seasoned sauce, hearty meatballs, and al dente pasta, it's a comfort food meal that’s loved by everyone. The rich tomato sauce simmered to perfection and the juicy, flavorful meatballs are a nostalgic taste that brings family and friends together. It’s simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to be a hit, whether you're making it for a casual dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
½ cup bread crumbs
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup finely chopped onion
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon sugar
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
1 lb spaghetti pasta
1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix everything together until well combined.
Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a tray.
Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides. Once browned, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add crushed tomatoes, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Simmer the sauce on low heat for 10 minutes.
Simmer the Meatballs in Sauce: Add the browned meatballs back into the skillet with the tomato sauce. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through.
Cook the Spaghetti: While the meatballs are simmering, cook the spaghetti in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta.
Assemble the Dish: Serve the spaghetti topped with meatballs and sauce. Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat or tofu, and follow the same recipe for the meatballs and sauce.
Spicy Meatballs: Add more red pepper flakes or a diced chili pepper to the meatball mixture for an extra kick.
Add Veggies: Include sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach in the sauce for more flavor and texture.
Meatball Free: For a simpler dish, you can skip the meatballs and just enjoy the flavorful tomato sauce over the pasta.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover spaghetti and meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the meatballs and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Store the pasta separately in a zip-top bag or container.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the meatballs and sauce in a skillet over medium heat or microwave them until heated through. You can also reheat the pasta separately in boiling water or in the microwave.

FAQs

How do I make sure the meatballs stay tender?

To ensure your meatballs are tender, don’t overmix the meatball mixture, and avoid overcooking them. Also, the addition of breadcrumbs and egg helps keep them moist.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version of the meatballs.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make both the meatballs and sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them when you’re ready to serve.

How do I prevent the spaghetti from sticking together?

Make sure to stir the spaghetti occasionally while cooking, and add a bit of olive oil or butter after draining to keep it from sticking.

Can I use store-bought spaghetti sauce?

Yes, if you're short on time, you can use store-bought sauce. However, homemade sauce will give it a richer and more authentic flavor.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the meatballs at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through, instead of frying them.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, adding a splash of red wine to the sauce can enhance its flavor. Just let it cook for a few minutes to reduce before adding the crushed tomatoes.

What can I serve with this spaghetti dish?

You can serve this spaghetti with a side of garlic bread, a fresh salad, or some roasted vegetables to complete the meal.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes by blanching, peeling, and crushing them to substitute for canned crushed tomatoes. You'll need about 6-8 medium tomatoes.

How do I know when the meatballs are done?

The meatballs are done when they are browned on the outside and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).

Conclusion

This Old Fashioned Spaghetti recipe is a true classic that delivers on flavor, comfort, and nostalgia. With its rich tomato sauce, savory meatballs, and al dente pasta, it's sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it's versatile, so you can adjust it to your taste or dietary preferences. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe will always be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!