Description
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.
Subscribe to our newsletter to get this recipe delivered straight to your inbox and never miss out on delicious updates!
Ingredients
Scale
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.
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Meatballs
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set aside.
- 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
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add reserved pasta water to make the sauce extra smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Return the meatballs to the skillet and let them simmer in the sauce for 5 minutes until cooked through.
- Add the cooked spaghetti and toss gently to coat in the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a finishing touch.
- Serve hot and enjoy the ultimate creamy spaghetti and meatballs!
Notes
- 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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: Italian-American