Meatballs and Noodles

Few meals are as comforting as homemade meatballs served over a plate of tender pasta with rich tomato sauce. This classic recipe combines juicy, seasoned meatballs with a flavorful marinara and perfectly cooked noodles for a satisfying dinner that’s ideal for family meals or special occasions. Finished with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese, it’s a timeless favorite everyone will enjoy.

🛒 Ingredients

For the Meatballs

Ingredient	Amount
Ground beef (or ground turkey)	1 pound
Breadcrumbs (plain, Italian-seasoned, or panko)	½ cup
Grated Parmesan cheese	¼ cup
Fresh parsley, finely chopped	¼ cup
Large egg	1
Garlic cloves, minced	2
Salt	1 teaspoon
Black pepper	½ teaspoon
Italian seasoning	1 teaspoon

For the Sauce

Ingredient	Amount
Olive oil	1 tablespoon
Small onion, chopped	1
Garlic cloves, minced	2
Crushed tomatoes	1 (28-ounce) can
Sugar or honey	1 teaspoon
Salt	1 teaspoon
Black pepper	½ teaspoon
Dried basil (or 3 tablespoons fresh basil)	1 tablespoon
Dried oregano	1 tablespoon

For Serving

Ingredient	Amount
Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine	8 ounces
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped	For garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese	For garnish

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Mix the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently until everything is evenly incorporated.

Tip: Avoid overmixing, as it can make the meatballs firm instead of tender.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into meatballs using about 2 tablespoons of the mixture for each one. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet with a little space between each meatball.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for beef or 165°F (74°C) if using turkey.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

Add the crushed tomatoes, sugar, salt, pepper, basil, and oregano. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain well and toss with a small drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Step 7: Finish the Dish

Transfer the baked meatballs to the skillet with the marinara sauce. Gently stir to coat them and simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors come together.

Step 8: Serve

Divide the cooked pasta among serving plates. Spoon the meatballs and sauce over the noodles, then finish with chopped fresh basil or parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while hot.