Meatballs are so versatile – you can use them on sandwiches, in spaghetti, as an appetizer with some delicious sauce, or just on their own! This Classic Spaghetti and Meatball recipe will quickly become one of your go-tos. Member’s Mark™ Italian Spaghetti Seasoning enhances the goodness of the meatballs with the flavors of onion, garlic, red and green bell peppers, parsley, salt, sugar, and red pepper. We suggest pairing it with some pasta, bread, salad, and wine for a classic Valentine’s Day meal at home!
What Do You Serve with Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs?
It’s simple – classic spaghetti and your favorite marina will do the trick! Just follow the package directions to cook the spaghetti, and here are some great sauce options to try:
Classic Marinara & Tomato-Based Sauces
- Rao’s Homemade Marinara Sauce – Rich, well-balanced, and made with high-quality ingredients. A favorite among many.
- Mezzetta Napa Valley Homemade Marinara – Fresh flavor with a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Bertolli Tomato & Basil Sauce – A budget-friendly option with a smooth, mild taste.
- Classico Riserva Marinara – No added sugar, rich in flavor, and made with extra virgin olive oil.
Chunky or Hearty Sauces
- Newman’s Own Sockarooni Sauce – A chunky sauce with peppers, mushrooms, and spices, adding extra texture.
- Bertolli Rustic Cut Marinara – A good choice if you like a thicker sauce with bits of tomato and veggies.
Creamy or Alternative Sauces
- Bertolli Alfredo Sauce – If you want a creamy alternative, this is a solid store-bought option.
- Buitoni Pesto with Basil – Great if you want to mix things up with a pesto twist.
How Do You Elevate this Classic Recipe?
If you’re looking to elevate classic spaghetti and meatballs, here are a few gourmet twists:
Pasta Upgrades
- Fresh Pasta: Use fresh, handmade spaghetti or swap for pappardelle for a luxurious texture.
- Infused Pasta: Try black garlic or saffron-infused pasta for a subtle yet rich flavor.
Meatball Enhancements
- Blend of Meats: Use a mix of beef, veal, and pork for extra tenderness.
- Stuffed Meatballs: Add a center of mozzarella, ricotta, or truffle-infused cheese.
- Herb & Spice Boost: Incorporate fresh basil, oregano, and a hint of fennel for complexity.
Sauce Elegance
- San Marzano Tomatoes: Use these for a naturally sweet, rich sauce.
- Wine Reduction: Deglaze with red wine for depth.
- Slow Simmer: Cook for hours with roasted garlic and a Parmesan rind.
Finishing Touches
- Shaved Truffle: A touch of black truffle makes it ultra-luxurious.
- Fresh Burrata: Place a burrata ball on top for creamy indulgence.

Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup Progresso® Panko Plain Crispy Bread Crumbs
- 2 tbsp Member's Mark™ Italian Spaghetti Seasoning
- 1 lb Ground beef
- 1 lb Ground pork
- 2 Eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 tbsp Bertolli® Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Member’s Mark™ Parsley, as desired
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper, then set aside.
- In a small bowl, mix together panko bread crumbs and Member's Mark™ Italian Spaghetti Seasoning.
- In a large bowl, add the ground beef, ground pork, eggs, olive oil, and the bread crumb mixture. Using a spatula or your hands, mix or kneed the meat into the dry ingredients until thoroughly combined.
- Roll the meat mixture and work it with your hands to make approximately 45 meatballs that are around 1-½ inches in width.
- Place formed meatballs on prepared baking sheet and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until cooked through.
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