Maggiano’s Little Italy's Classic Spaghetti with Meatballs Copycat Recipe

Last Updated Dec 22, 2024 By I Titov

Maggiano’s Little Italy's Classic Spaghetti with Meatballs Copycat Recipe

Photo: Classic Spaghetti with Meatballs

Classic Spaghetti with Meatballs from Maggiano's Little Italy features tender spaghetti noodles topped with flavorful, juicy beef meatballs simmered in a rich, savory marinara sauce, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and vibrant basil leaves for a comforting Italian feast.

Equipments

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper (optional)
  • Slotted spoon
  • Wooden spoon
  • Tongs
  • Grater (for Parmesan cheese)
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Ladle
  • Serving platter or pasta bowls

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) spaghetti noodles
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 small onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 (28 oz/800g) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 oz/425g) can tomato sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Extra Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
  • Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Ground beef quality directly impacts the flavor and texture of your meatballs, so choose freshly ground beef with moderate fat content for juiciness. Breadcrumbs help bind the mixture and keep the meatballs tender, while soaking them in milk enhances moisture. Fresh herbs like parsley and basil add vibrant flavor that dried herbs can't fully replicate, so using fresh leaves is recommended. Simmering meatballs in a rich combination of crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce develops a deep, savory marinara that coats the pasta beautifully. You can recreate the authentic taste of Classic Spaghetti with Meatballs from Maggiano's Little Italy by carefully selecting these ingredients and following their preparation style.

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Line baking sheet with parchment paper (optional).
  • Finely chop onion, garlic, parsley, and basil.
  • In mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, milk, egg, parsley, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  • Mix gently until just combined.
  • Shape mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs.
  • Arrange meatballs on baking sheet.
  • Bake meatballs for 15–18 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
  • Meanwhile, heat olive oil in large skillet over medium heat.
  • Sauté chopped onion and remaining minced garlic until soft and fragrant.
  • Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
  • Simmer sauce for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Cook spaghetti in large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions; drain.
  • Add cooked meatballs to marinara sauce; simmer together for 5–10 minutes.
  • Plate cooked spaghetti in serving bowls or platter.
  • Ladle meatballs and sauce over spaghetti.
  • Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan and fresh basil leaves.
  • Serve immediately with extra Parmesan on the side.

Substitution

Classic Spaghetti with Meatballs from Maggiano's Little Italy copycat menu can easily accommodate ingredient substitutions to suit your pantry and taste preferences. If fresh basil is unavailable, dried basil can be used, but use about one-third of the amount since it is more concentrated. Ground turkey or pork can replace beef to alter the flavor and reduce fat content without compromising texture. In place of traditional spaghetti noodles, you may choose whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary needs. Breadcrumbs can be swapped with crushed crackers or oats to maintain the meatballs' binding and moisture.

Tips

When mixing meatball ingredients, handle the mixture gently to avoid dense, tough meatballs, ensuring they remain tender after baking. Using a slotted spoon to transfer meatballs from the baking sheet to the sauce allows excess oil to drip off, preventing a greasy texture. Stir marinara sauce occasionally while simmering to avoid burning and maintain a smooth consistency. Your freshly grated Parmesan and torn basil added just before serving will enhance flavor and provide a vibrant presentation.

Nutritions

Classic Spaghetti with Meatballs from Maggiano's Little Italy delivers a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Ground beef provides a rich source of protein and essential iron, while spaghetti noodles offer complex carbohydrates that fuel your body. The marinara sauce, made with crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce, contributes vitamins A and C, along with antioxidants such as lycopene. Your meal is rounded out with Parmesan cheese for calcium and fresh herbs like basil and parsley that add flavor and nutritional benefits without extra calories.

Storage

Store leftover Classic Spaghetti with Meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly to maintain freshness. Consume within 3 to 4 days for optimal taste and safety, reheating thoroughly before serving to an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC). You can also freeze the meatballs and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months, thawing overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variation or Alternatives

You can substitute ground beef with a mix of ground pork and veal for a richer meatball flavor. To enhance the sauce's depth, try roasting fresh tomatoes and garlic before adding them to the pan. Swap traditional spaghetti noodles for whole wheat or gluten-free varieties to accommodate dietary preferences. Incorporate a splash of red wine into the marinara sauce during simmering for a more robust taste.

Allergies

Classic Spaghetti with Meatballs contains common allergens such as milk from Parmesan cheese and egg in the meatball mixture, which may affect individuals with dairy or egg allergies. Breadcrumbs contain gluten, making this dish unsuitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. You should check all ingredients carefully if you have allergies, especially to dairy, eggs, or wheat, to avoid adverse reactions.

Why this recipe?

Classic Spaghetti with Meatballs from Maggiano's Little Italy is favored for its rich, authentic Italian flavors combined with perfectly seasoned meatballs and a hearty marinara sauce. The dish offers a comforting balance of tender pasta and robust, slow-cooked tomato sauce that highlights traditional recipes passed down through generations. Recreating the copycat version allows you to enjoy this iconic meal at home, tailoring the ingredients to your taste while capturing Maggiano's signature style. This effort not only satisfies a craving but also brings the warm ambiance of Italian dining right into your kitchen.



About the author.
I Titov is a passionate home cook and dedicated food enthusiast, known for experimenting with diverse cuisines and copycat recipes in his kitchen.

Disclaimer.
The information provided in this document is for general informational purposes only and is not guaranteed to be complete. While this website strive to ensure the accuracy of the content, we cannot guarantee that the details mentioned are up-to-date or applicable to all scenarios.

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