Creamy Spaghetti and Meatballs

Nothing beats a comforting plate of Creamy Spaghetti and Meatballs! This dish takes classic spaghetti and meatballs to the next level with a rich, velvety cream sauce that coats every bite. Juicy, flavorful meatballs and tender pasta make this the perfect family dinner or special meal for any night of the week.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Spaghetti and Meatballs

• Ultimate Comfort Food: Rich, creamy, and satisfying.
• Homemade Meatballs: Juicy and packed with flavor.
• Creamy Twist on a Classic: A luscious sauce makes this dish irresistible.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps for a restaurant-quality meal.

Ingredients for Creamy Spaghetti and Meatballs

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef – Juicy and flavorful.
• ½ cup breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meatballs.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a rich, cheesy taste.
• 1 egg – Holds everything together.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – For a delicious garlicky kick.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A perfect blend of herbs.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – For a little spice.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For searing the meatballs.

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter – Adds richness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Brings out incredible flavor.
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream – The base of the creamy sauce.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce for extra creaminess.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A perfect herb blend.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Just the right amount of spice.
• ½ cup pasta water – Helps create a silky-smooth sauce.

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz spaghetti – Classic and perfect for soaking up the sauce.
• Water and salt for boiling – Properly seasoned pasta is key.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl – For making the meatballs.
• Large skillet – To cook the meatballs and sauce.
• Pot for pasta – To cook the spaghetti.
• Tongs or spatula – For stirring and serving.

How to Make Creamy Spaghetti and Meatballs

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

1. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the meatballs until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
4. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Add reserved pasta water to make the sauce extra smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return the meatballs to the skillet and let them simmer in the sauce for 5 minutes until cooked through.
2. Add the cooked spaghetti and toss gently to coat in the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

1. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a finishing touch.
2. Serve hot and enjoy the ultimate creamy spaghetti and meatballs!

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a garlic bread or a side of Caesar salad.
• Serve with steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat!

Tips for the Best Creamy Spaghetti and Meatballs

• Use Fresh Parmesan: It melts better and gives the sauce a smooth texture.
• Don’t Overwork the Meatball Mixture: Mix gently to keep them soft and juicy.
• Save Pasta Water: It helps loosen the sauce and makes it extra silky.
• Adjust Creaminess: Add more or less cream depending on your preference.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze the meatballs separately for up to 3 months. Reheat and mix with fresh pasta and sauce.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?
A: Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey works just as well, but may need a little extra seasoning for flavor.

Q2: Can I make this sauce lighter?
A: Yes! Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version.

Q3: What if I don’t have buttermilk for the meatballs?
A: You can substitute with plain Greek yogurt or milk to keep them tender.

Conclusion: A Creamy, Cozy Classic!

This Creamy Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe is a game-changer! The rich, velvety sauce, tender pasta, and juicy meatballs make it a dish the whole family will love. Try it for dinner tonight and savor every creamy, cheesy bite!

Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to leave a review and share your photos on Pinterest! We love seeing your delicious creations.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 580 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 65g | Fat: 25g | Fiber: 4g | Sodium: 720mg

Enjoy your creamy, dreamy spaghetti and meatballs!

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