This spaghetti and meatballs recipe, inspired by the queen of home cooking, Pioneer Woman, is set to become a regular feature on your family dinner table. If you’re on the hunt for the best spaghetti sauce recipe, look no further. This dish combines flavorful, moist meatballs with a rich, delectable tomato sauce that’s surprisingly easy to make. Straight from the pages of Pioneer Woman’s children’s book series, and also featured on her website, this spaghetti and meatballs recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Pioneer Woman Spaghetti & Meatballs Recipe
Close up of Pioneer Woman Spaghetti and Meatballs in a white bowl.
Ingredients for the Best Spaghetti and Meatballs
Before we dive into the easy steps, let’s gather the ingredients for both the meatballs and the spaghetti sauce. This Pioneer Woman spaghetti sauce recipe uses simple, pantry-staple ingredients to create a truly memorable meal.
Meatball Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef: The foundation for juicy and tender meatballs.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent and savory depth.
- 1 cup bread crumbs: Helps to create a light and airy texture. (Approximately 2 slices of thick bread, processed)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses a salty, nutty flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
- Black pepper, to taste: For a touch of spice.
- 1/4 cup chopped Italian parsley: Brings freshness and a hint of herbaceousness.
- Splash of milk: Adds moisture and tenderness.
Sauce Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Spaghetti Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing and building flavor.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Creates a sweet and aromatic base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Complements the onion and tomatoes.
- 1 (28 oz) can whole peeled tomatoes: Provides a robust tomato flavor.
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes: Adds body and texture to the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A classic blend for authentic Italian flavor.
- Black pepper, to taste: Adds a subtle kick.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Reduces acidity and enhances sweetness.
- 1/4 cup chopped Italian parsley: Freshness in the sauce as well.
- 8 whole basil leaves, finely chopped: Added at the end for a bright, aromatic finish.
Step-by-Step Guide to Pioneer Woman Spaghetti Sauce and Meatballs
This recipe is broken down into easy-to-follow steps, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels. Get ready to create a homemade spaghetti sauce that rivals any jarred variety, all thanks to Pioneer Woman’s inspiration.
Making the Flavorful Meatballs
- Combine Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, minced garlic, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, salt, pepper, Italian parsley, and a splash of milk. Mix everything together thoroughly but avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
- Roll into Balls: Roll the mixture into 1 1/2 inch meatballs.
- Bake the Meatballs: Place the meatballs on a foil-lined cookie sheet that has been sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Baking ensures they are cooked through and retain their moisture.
Close up of uncooked meatballs on a foil lined baking sheet.
Preparing the Delicious Spaghetti Sauce
- Sauté Aromatics: While the meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, or until translucent and softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the whole peeled tomatoes and crushed tomatoes. Season with salt, Italian seasoning, pepper, sugar, and parsley. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat. Then, reduce the heat to low and cook for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to blend some of the larger tomato chunks at this stage.
Combining and Simmering Together
- Add Meatballs to Sauce: Gently add the baked meatballs to the simmering spaghetti sauce. Stir lightly to coat the meatballs evenly.
- Simmer Again: Reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes. Stir gently occasionally during this time to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Finish with Fresh Basil: Just before serving, stir in the finely chopped fresh basil. This adds a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Serving Your Pioneer Woman Spaghetti and Meatballs
Serve this incredible Pioneer Woman spaghetti sauce and meatballs recipe over cooked spaghetti. Garnish each serving with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. For a complete and satisfying meal, pair it with a crisp Caesar salad and warm garlic bread. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish that is sure to become a family favorite!
