Spaghetti and Meatballs from Spaghetti Warehouse features tender beef meatballs simmered in a rich marinara sauce, served over al dente spaghetti noodles and garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, creating a classic Italian comfort dish with hearty flavors and satisfying textures.
Equipments
- Large pot
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Slotted spoon
- Wooden spoon
- Colander
- Cheese grater
- Tongs
- Ladle
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 jar (24 oz/680g) marinara sauce
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti noodles
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
When preparing your meatballs, using fresh breadcrumbs instead of dried can enhance moisture and texture. Make sure to finely grate the Parmesan cheese for better incorporation into the meat mixture, which boosts flavor depth. Using a combination of fresh garlic and parsley adds a fresh herbal note that balances the richness of the beef. Cooking spaghetti until al dente ensures it holds up well beneath the sauce, providing the perfect bite. Your Spaghetti and Meatballs from Spaghetti Warehouse copycat menu will capture the same hearty satisfaction of the classic Italian comfort dish.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, egg, milk, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix until just combined.
- Form mixture into meatballs.
- Place meatballs on a baking sheet.
- Bake meatballs for 15-20 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
- While meatballs bake, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook spaghetti noodles according to package instructions; drain using a colander.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Transfer baked meatballs to the skillet.
- Pour marinara sauce over meatballs.
- Simmer meatballs in sauce for 10-15 minutes.
- Serve meatballs and sauce over spaghetti noodles.
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Substitution
The Spaghetti and Meatballs from Spaghetti Warehouse copycat menu can be adapted by substituting ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option. If fresh breadcrumbs are unavailable, crushed crackers or oats serve as suitable alternatives to maintain the meatball texture. When fresh parsley is not on hand, dried parsley or basil can provide similar herbal notes. You can use pre-grated Parmesan cheese to save time, but freshly grated Parmesan enhances flavor and melts better over the pasta. Cooking spaghetti slightly under al dente ensures it will not overcook when combined with the sauce and meatballs.
Tips
Make sure not to overmix the meatball ingredients, as this can make the meatballs tough rather than tender. When cooking the spaghetti, salt the boiling water generously to enhance the pasta's flavor. Use a slotted spoon to carefully transfer the meatballs from the baking sheet to the skillet, preventing excess oil transfer. For best texture, simmer the meatballs gently in the marinara sauce rather than boiling vigorously.
Nutritions
Spaghetti and Meatballs provides a balanced source of protein from ground beef and eggs, essential for muscle repair and growth. The dish contains carbohydrates from spaghetti noodles, offering sustained energy, while olive oil and Parmesan cheese contribute healthy fats and calcium. Marinara sauce adds vitamins A and C from tomatoes and herbs, supporting immune function. You can enjoy this meal as a hearty option that combines essential nutrients for overall wellness.
Storage
Store leftover spaghetti and meatballs in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Refrigerate the dish within two hours of cooking and consume it within 3-4 days for optimal flavor and safety. When reheating, use a microwave or stovetop to heat thoroughly, ensuring the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) before serving.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap ground beef with a mix of ground pork and veal for a more tender and flavorful meatball. Incorporate finely chopped onion or roasted red pepper into the mixture for extra moisture and a subtle sweetness. For a richer sauce, simmer the marinara with a splash of red wine or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to enhance the flavor complexity. Baking meatballs instead of frying reduces oil usage, but searing them in the skillet before simmering can create a crispier exterior and deepen the taste.
Allergies
Spaghetti and Meatballs from Spaghetti Warehouse contains common allergens such as milk, present in both the Parmesan cheese and milk used in the meatballs, which may affect those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. The breadcrumbs include gluten, making this dish unsuitable for individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. If you have allergies, carefully review ingredient labels and consider substitutions to ensure your meal is safe and enjoyable.
Why this recipe?
Spaghetti Warehouse's Spaghetti and Meatballs menu is favored for its authentic Italian flavors, generously portioned meatballs, and perfectly cooked spaghetti that delivers a satisfying, hearty meal. The rich marinara sauce, slow-simmered with herbs and spices, enhances the dish's traditional taste, making each bite deeply flavorful. You'll find that replicating this classic at home allows you to customize ingredients to your taste while enjoying the comforting, nostalgic appeal of a beloved restaurant favorite. This makes the copycat recipe both a rewarding cooking challenge and a delicious way to bring a restaurant-quality dining experience into your kitchen.