Ina Garten Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

If you love classic Italian comfort food, this Ina Garten Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe is perfect. It is rich, hearty and full of flavor.

The meatballs are tender and the tomato sauce is thick and savory. Paired with spaghetti, it makes a complete, satisfying meal.

Many people enjoy this dish because it is easy to make at home and tastes just like a restaurant. You do not need special cooking skills to create this delicious meal.

In this post, I will show how to make Ina Garten Spaghetti and Meatballs, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to make it perfect.

My Experience With This Recipe

I first tried this Ina Garten Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe last month. The meatballs were juicy and flavorful. The tomato sauce was rich and thick, perfect for coating the spaghetti.

My family loved it instantly. The recipe was simple to follow, even for a beginner like me. Cooking this meal made the kitchen smell amazing.

I loved serving it with fresh basil and grated Parmesan. This recipe gave me confidence, and now it is a favorite for our family dinners.

Recipe Card Info

• Recipe Name: Ina Garten Spaghetti and Meatballs
• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 40 mins
• Total Time: 60 mins
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Calories: 520 kcal per serving

Equipment List

• Large pot for boiling spaghetti
• Large skillet or frying pan for meatballs
• Saucepan for tomato sauce
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet (optional)
• Tongs or spatula

Ingredients You Need for Ina Garten Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

For Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

For Sauce:

• 3 cups tomato sauce or marinara sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Pasta:

• 1 pound spaghetti
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat Oven (Optional)

If baking meatballs, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking sheet lightly.

2. Mix Meatball Ingredients

In a bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, salt, pepper and Italian herbs.

3. Shape Meatballs

Use your hands to roll mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls. Place on a plate or baking sheet.

4. Brown Meatballs

Heat olive oil in skillet over medium heat. Brown meatballs on all sides, 5–7 minutes.

5. Prepare Tomato Sauce

In a saucepan, heat olive oil. Add minced garlic, cook 1 minute. Add tomato sauce, basil, salt, and pepper.

6. Simmer Meatballs in Sauce

Add browned meatballs to sauce. Cover and simmer 20–25 minutes. Stir occasionally.

7. Boil Spaghetti

Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

8. Combine Spaghetti and Sauce

Place cooked spaghetti in large serving bowl. Pour sauce and meatballs on top. Toss gently.

9. Garnish Dish

Top with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while warm.

10. Enjoy Meal

Serve family-style or on individual plates. Pair with garlic bread or salad for a complete meal.

Tips to Make the Best Ina Garten Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

• Use a mix of beef and pork for juicier meatballs.
• Do not overmix meat; meatballs stay tender.
• Brown meatballs before simmering to keep them firm.
• Simmer sauce slowly to enhance flavor.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for better taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking meatballs makes them dry.
• Skipping seasoning results in bland meatballs.
• Using low-quality tomato sauce affects flavor.
• Not boiling pasta properly can make it mushy.
• Forgetting to stir sauce occasionally can burn garlic.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Ina Garten Spaghetti and Meatballs with garlic bread or a fresh green salad. Sprinkle Parmesan and fresh basil on top. Pair with a glass of red wine or sparkling water.

It is perfect for family dinners, special occasions or cozy nights at home. Serve warm to enjoy the full flavors of tender meatballs and rich tomato sauce.

Variations You Can Try

• Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Mix finely chopped spinach into meatballs for extra veggies.
• Use turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork for lighter meatballs.
• Add a splash of red wine to the tomato sauce for depth of flavor.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti for a healthier option.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on stove over low heat until warm.
• Reheat spaghetti separately to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Freeze cooked meatballs in sauce for up to 2 months.
• Add fresh basil and Parmesan when serving after reheating.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	520 kcal
Carbohydrates	55 g
Protein	28 g
Fat	22 g
Saturated Fat	8 g
Sugar	7 g

Health Benefits

This dish provides protein from meat, which supports muscle growth. Tomato sauce adds antioxidants and vitamin C. Using olive oil gives healthy fats.

Adding fresh basil can provide additional nutrients. Pairing with whole wheat pasta increases fiber content. Enjoy in moderation as a satisfying and balanced meal for the whole family.

FAQs about Ina Garten Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare meatballs and sauce a day before. Reheat gently before serving for best flavor.

Q2: Can I bake meatballs instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes until browned, then add to simmering sauce.

Q3: Can I use only beef for meatballs?
Yes, but mixing beef and pork keeps meatballs juicier and more flavorful.

Q4: Can I make spaghetti and meatballs vegetarian?
Yes, use plant-based meat or lentils for meatballs, and keep tomato sauce the same.

Q5: How do I prevent pasta from sticking together?
Add a little olive oil to boiling water or toss cooked spaghetti lightly with sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Ina Garten Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe is classic, comforting and easy to make at home. The meatballs are tender, sauce is rich and spaghetti is perfectly cooked.

Even beginners can follow the steps and make a delicious meal. Pair with sides like garlic bread or salad for a full Italian-American dinner experience.

Serve warm, garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan and enjoy a hearty, homemade comfort food favorite. This recipe is simple, satisfying and perfect for family dinners or special occasions.