Name: Creamy Spaghetti Meatballs: 5 Steps to Comfort Food Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: For the Meatballs:; 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional); For the Creamy Sauce:; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; For the Spaghetti:; 12 ounces spaghetti; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe

Creamy Spaghetti Meatballs has become my go-to comfort food recipe, transforming ordinary weeknights into something special. This delightful dish features tender meatballs enveloped in a rich creamy sauce, served over spaghetti. It’s an Italian classic that not only satisfies your cravings but also brings everyone to the table. Let’s dive into the details of this amazing recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Spaghetti Meatballs

This dish is a favorite for many reasons. First, it combines the comforting flavors of homemade meatballs and creamy sauce, making it a perfect choice for a family-friendly dinner. Second, it’s quick to prepare, with a total cooking time of just 45 minutes. Third, the rich spaghetti with meatballs is so versatile; you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer a classic creamy tomato sauce for spaghetti and meatballs or a twist with Alfredo, this recipe has you covered. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it accessible for various diets. You won’t regret making this easy creamy spaghetti and meatballs dish!

Ingredients for Creamy Spaghetti Meatballs

Gather these items:

For the Meatballs:
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
For the Creamy Sauce:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Spaghetti:
12 ounces spaghetti
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

How to Make Creamy Spaghetti Meatballs Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Form into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Step 3: Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4: While meatballs are baking, cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 5: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 6: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir to combine, then bring to a simmer.
Step 7: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 8: Add cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Gently fold in the baked meatballs.
Step 9: Allow the dish to simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors together.
Step 10: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Spaghetti Meatballs

Keep these in mind:

Adjust seasoning to your preference.
Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor.
Serve immediately for best taste.
For extra creaminess, consider adding a touch more heavy cream.
Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Spaghetti Meatballs

Here are some ideas:

Pair with garlic bread for a hearty meal.
Serve with a side salad for a balanced dinner.
Top with fresh basil or extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Spaghetti Meatballs

To store leftovers, keep the creamy spaghetti meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain moisture. This makes for a quick creamy spaghetti meatballs meal any night of the week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Spaghetti Meatballs

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Spaghetti Meatballs?

The secret lies in the balance of flavors and the quality of ingredients. Use fresh herbs, high-quality beef, and don’t rush the simmering process for the sauce. This ensures a rich spaghetti with meatballs experience where every bite is bursting with flavor.

Can I make Creamy Spaghetti Meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time. Store the cooked meatballs and sauce separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, cook the spaghetti, and combine for a fresh meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Spaghetti Meatballs?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet when cooking meatballs. This will ensure they brown evenly. Also, be cautious with seasoning the sauce; taste as you go to achieve the best flavor balance.

Variations of Creamy Spaghetti Meatballs You Can Try

Here are some delicious ideas to mix things up:

Add spinach or kale to the sauce for a nutritional boost.
Swap out beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Experiment with different types of pasta, such as penne or fettuccine.
Create a spicy version by adding crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Creamy Spaghetti Meatballs: 5 Steps to Comfort Food Bliss - Creamy Spaghetti Meatballs - additional detail

For more tips on making the perfect meatballs, check out this guide. If you’re interested in gluten-free options, visit this page. You can also learn more about Italian cuisine here.