Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (2024)

by Chef Jean-Pierre

Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (1)

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Who Doesn’t Love Spaghetti and Meatballs!?

Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (2)

There’s something about spaghetti and meatballs that brings people together. Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck gathering, this classic dish is always a crowd favorite.

So why settle for store-bought spaghetti sauce and meatballs when you can make your own from scratch? Today I am sharing one of my favorite recipes that my mother taught me as a child.

Loved by young and old, not only is spaghetti and meatballs delicious, but they’re also fun to eat! Twirling your spaghetti around a fork followed by the satisfaction of sinking your teeth into a big juicy meatball smothered in a mouthwatering tomato sauce. Hmm, every bite is better than the last!

Trust me, after trying this homemade spaghetti and meatball recipe, you’ll never go back to the store-bought versions again. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking!

Bon appétit!

Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (3)

Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (4)Chef Jean-Pierre

Hello there friends, Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe today! This Spaghetti and Meatballs will be the best you will ever have. Do you know why? Because I'm half French and half Italian! Blending the two techniques together makes this recipe just amazing!

4.06 from 330 votes

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Recipe Ingredients

Breadcrumbs:

    Makes 2 cups

    • 4 slices Country White Bread crusts removed
    • 2 tablespoons Sundried Tomatoes roughly chopped
    • ¼ cup Italian Parsley Leaves

    Meatballs:

      Makes about 24 Balls depending on their size

      • 2 tablespoons Basil or Garlic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
      • 1 or 2 large Onions chopped, should have about 1 ½ to 2 cups raw onion
      • 1 lbs. lean Ground Beef 80/20
      • 1 lbs. Spicy Ground Italian Sausage
      • 2 cups Fresh Breadcrumbs
      • 1 tablespoon Garlic chopped
      • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese grated plus more to serve
      • 1 large Egg
      • 2 tablespoons Parsley chopped
      • 1 tsp Salt
      • ½ tsp Black Pepper
      • ¼ cup Buttermilk

      Marinara Sauce:

      • 1 tablespoon Basil or Garlic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
      • 1 cup Caramelized Onion (see Meatball Recipe)
      • 1 tablespoon Garlic chopped
      • 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme or Oregano chopped
      • 1/4 cup Tomato Pasta
      • 2 cups Tomato Puree
      • 15/20 Leaves of Basil cut into a fine chiffonade
      • 3 cans 28 Ounces each Peeled Tomatoes or a #10 Can (The Chef discard about 2 cups of the tomato water in the cans)

      Recipe Instructions

      For the Breadcrumbs:

      • Using a food processor chop all ingredients until well blended.

      For the Meatballs:

      • Sauté the onion until light golden brown and reserve ½ of them for the sauce.

      • In a large enough bowl, mix all the ingredients until well blended.Do not overmix.

      • Make the balls as the Chef did in the video.

      • Refrigerate the balls for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.It will be easier for you to form them into nice balls.

      • In a sauté pan heat about 2 tablespoons olive oil and when hot add the balls and roll them in the pan until nicely golden brown on all sides.Do not add too much at the same time.This would make hard to get them golden brown.

      • Add them to the sauce and cook them slowly for about 45 minutes to one hour.

      For the Marinara Sauce:

      • In a Dutch oven or a large pot, add some olive oil and when hot add the onion.

      • Add all the other ingredients like the Chef did in the video.

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      • About
      • Latest Posts

      Chef Jean-Pierre

      Master Chef at ChefJeanPierre.com

      Chef Jean-Pierre, born in Aix-en-Provence, France, honed his culinary skills at a young age, mastering the art of charcuterie by the age of twelve. Determined to become a chef, he began his formal apprenticeship at L'Oustau de Baumaniere in Provence, one of the world’s best restaurants with a 3-star Michelin rating.

      Jean-Pierre continued his apprenticeship on the French Riviera where he worked at famous restaurants, such as L’Oasis at La Napoule, Le Vendome in Aix-en-Provence, and the the Carlton in Cannes. In 1976, he opened The Left Bank Restaurant, consistently recognized as one of the best in America for 22 years by magazines like "Bon Appetit," "Conde Nast," "Gourmet Magazine" and "Travel & Leisure."

      Jean-Pierre was also a popular TV personality, having hosted National Public Television series like "Incredible Cuisine” and "Sunshine Cuisine." He was also nominated for "Best Culinary Video" by the James Beard Foundation and operated the nationally renowned “Chef Jean-Pierre's Cooking School” and was a sought-after guest on shows like "The Today Show" and "Larry King Live."

      With over 1.1 Million Subscribers to his Chef Jean-Pierre YouTube Channel, he is a widely respected figure in the culinary world, known for his skill and dedication to his craft, but even more so known for making gourmet cooking fun and easy to learn.

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      1. Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (23)

        Lindaon June 14, 2023 at 10:30 am

        Can I freeze these already cooked? I need to travel with them.

        Reply

        • Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (24)

          Chef Jean-Pierreon July 14, 2023 at 8:24 pm

          Certainly!😊

          Reply

      2. Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (25)

        Joan Coluccion June 8, 2023 at 1:38 pm

        Hi Chef Jean Pierre,
        I’ve tried numerous meatball recipes. To date the winner is Gina, the Italian Grandma but I haven’t tried your recipe.
        I was going to make them this weekend but I’m not sure of the type of sun dried tomatoes you use in the recipe. Are they packed in olive oil or just the dried sun dried tomatoes sold in a package?
        Thank you for all your great recipes. I tried your roasted chicken and it was amazing.

        Reply

      3. Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (26)

        Scotton May 12, 2023 at 3:10 pm

        Chef-Can I make extra meatballs & freeze them raw? Thank you!

        Reply

        • Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (27)

          Chef Jean-Pierreon May 18, 2023 at 7:21 pm

          Certainly! 😊

          Reply

      4. Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (28)

        Xuanon March 22, 2023 at 11:41 pm

        Chef Jean Pierre, I have already cooked this one twice. My family liked it a great deal. Especially, my daughter loves helping me make the meatballs and having those for her lunch boxes. I have a question for “meatball step 5”. I have always found it difficult to saute the meatballs brown even after keeping them in the freezer for 30 min. The hot pan quickly melt the meatballs which tend to melt and somewhat fall apart. In this case, could I use a deep fryer pot with more cooking oil instead, in which case I think it is easier to keep the meatballs in shape. If so, do you have a recommended cooking temperature and time? Many thanks!

        Reply

        • Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (29)

          Chef Jean-Pierreon March 24, 2023 at 1:47 pm

          Keep them in the fridge longer, deep frying is not the best method. It’s OK but not ideal! 😊

          Reply

          • Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (30)

            Kristy Krameron May 19, 2023 at 7:01 pm

            My Mom used to bake them in the oven. Would that work after browning them? Thank you Chef Jean Pierre ! Love your shows

            Reply

            • Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (31)

              Chef Jean-Pierreon June 4, 2023 at 5:44 pm

              Yes! It would indeed! 😊

              Reply

      5. Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (32)

        Geneoon February 2, 2023 at 7:54 pm

        My boys loved these so much and this is the 2nd time in two weeks that we have enjoy the wonderful meat balls.

        Reply

      6. Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (33)

        Donna Leeon January 16, 2023 at 1:43 pm

        Chef Jean Pierre, I have been watching you for years! You are such a precious gift! I thank you and appreciate each and every video you provide! The education you have given to me, most with money can purchase, I am so grateful! All of your recipes, tips, and advice has enhanced my skill level in the kitchen beyond my expectations! I hope you continue to share your expertise with all of us for many years to come! This past holiday season, your recipes took our families celebration and enjoyment up a notch, with the richness of flavor at the dinner table….Thanks to you!

        Reply

      7. Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (34)

        Carolon January 2, 2023 at 3:21 pm

        Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (35)
        Incredibly delicious! You were absolutely correct – I made it today and we loved it. I did puree some of the whole tomatoes, to make it a little smoother. I really enjoy all your cooking tips and advice. Thank you!

        Reply

        • Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (36)

          Chef Jean-Pierreon January 2, 2023 at 7:33 pm

          So glad you loved it! 😊

          Reply

      8. Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (37)

        Sandie Weatherwaxon January 2, 2023 at 1:10 pm

        Chef Pierre,
        My husband and I love your videos. So informative and entertaining. We now love to cook your recipes together. So far, we have made your Beef stock, Prime Rib, Chili and today we are trying your recipe for Meatballs. Everything has been delicious. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge with us and bringing us together while cooking.
        Best wishes for the New Year.
        Sandie

        Reply

        • Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (38)

          Chef Jean-Pierreon January 2, 2023 at 3:01 pm

          Thank you for the kind words! It is comments like yours that make all worthwhile! 😊❤️

          Reply

      9. Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (39)

        Linda Dummitton November 19, 2022 at 9:42 pm

        Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (40)
        Excellent!

        Reply

        • Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (41)

          Chef Jean-Pierreon November 21, 2022 at 11:46 am

          Thank you Linda!

          Reply

          • Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (42)

            Turkey burgeron December 22, 2022 at 7:22 pm

            Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (43)
            Chef Jean Pierre, we love you! We have loved you for years. I have cooked almost all of your recipes. Tonight I am trying your meatballs. Your balls are now chilling in the fridge. We love your sense of humor, and all the good things you contribute to home chefs. Thank you so much for bringing this professional culinary level down to a fun and easy home cook. Merry Christmas chef, God bless you!

            Reply

            • Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (44)

              Chef Jean-Pierreon December 24, 2022 at 12:50 pm

              Thank you Turkey burger for such kind words! I am so grateful for supporters such as yourself. God bless you and Merry Christmas!

              Reply

              • Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (45)

                Turkey Burger Decouveton December 25, 2022 at 10:43 am

                Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (46)
                Merry Christmas Jean Pierre. We are cooking your horseradish prime rib roast today. 7 pounds is plenty to share. We named our new 2 pound red toy poodle after you – Little Jean Pierre! Merry Christmas and God bless you and family, mon cher ami!

      Submit a Comment

      Amazing Spaghetti And Meatballs Recipe! | Chef Jean-Pierre (2024)

      FAQs

      What makes spaghetti with meatballs a quintessentially Italian American dish that is one that you would not see in Italy? ›

      This dish was probably invented by Italians that came to America between 1880 and 1920, when millions of Italians left Italy in search of freedom and land. They desired diets rich in meat, after discovering that meat in America was relatively inexpensive.

      Why do spaghetti and meatballs go together? ›

      Italian Immigrants

      Spaghetti was one of the only Italian ingredients available in the U.S. at the time, so people began eating the pasta and meatballs together. The Italian-American meal became more prominent over time, and today, it is one of the most well-loved dishes in the country.

      What can I add to canned spaghetti to make it better? ›

      Add sugar, salt and pepper to taste as you go. My father enjoyed his first bowl as is, but decided it wasn't tomatoey enough, so for his next helping scooped ladles into another pot to reheat, added a clove of garlic, teaspoon of tomato paste and a tablespoon of sugar. Each to his own. “That's yummy,” he said.

      How do you jazz up canned spaghetti? ›

      I add fresh garlic , onions , tomatoes , oregano , basil , peppers and dried Italian spice mix . Always use good quality pasta , it makes a big difference . Don't forget a good parmesan to grate over it !

      What Italian food is not eaten in Italy? ›

      Baked Ziti is a popular Italian-American dish that is not commonly found in Italy. It is a casserole-style pasta that typically consists of ziti pasta, tomato sauce, cheese (usually a combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan), and added ingredients like meat or vegetables.

      Why is spaghetti and meatballs unhealthy? ›

      A typical serving of white spaghetti (2 cups) with 8 meatballs (6 ounces), sauce (3/4 cup) and Parmesan cheese (2 tablespoons), garlic bread, and iceberg lettuce salad has, on average, a whopping 1,495 calories, 70 fat grams, and more than a day's worth of sodium, yet it's shy in vitamins, minerals and other good ...

      Do Italians in Italy eat spaghetti and meatballs? ›

      "Al forno" simply means "baked in an oven," and it's the most customary way you'll find meatballs and pasta in the same dish together in Italy. While spaghetti and meatballs may not be so common, a casserole-style dish of pasta and meatballs certainly is - think baked ziti!

      Is it better to fry or bake meatballs for spaghetti? ›

      Baking will result in meatballs with a crunchy exterior, though the caramelisation achieved from frying will be superior. Baked meatballs take the least amount of effort, as you'll only need to turn them once or twice throughout the cook and you can make a larger batch at once.

      What's the difference between Italian style meatballs and regular meatballs? ›

      Italian-style meatballs often include additional ingredients such as milk, olive oil, ground pork, fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, Italian herb seasoning, and sometimes a combination of ground beef, veal, and pork [2].

      What are the ingredients in great value Italian style meatballs? ›

      BEEF, PORK, WATER, TEXTURED SOY FLOUR, ONIONS, BREAD CRUMBS (WHEAT FLOUR, SALT, YEAST), DEXTROSE, CONTAINS LESS THAN 2% OF THE FOLLOWING: SOY PROTEIN CONCENTRATE, SALT, SPICES, COLOR ADDED, GRATED PECORINO ROMANO CHEESE (MADE FROM SHEEP'S MILK, SALT, ENZYME), SODIUM POLYPHOSPHATE, DRIED GARLIC, DRIED ONION, CANOLA OIL, ...

      What is the fancy name for spaghetti and meatballs? ›

      Spaghetti and Meatballs All'Amatriciana.

      Why is there no spaghetti and meatballs in Italy? ›

      Spaghetti and meatballs has elements native to Italy, but the dish originated far from the country. It turns out spaghetti and meatballs isn't actually an Italian dish, but rather an Italian-American creation dating back to around 1880-1920 (via Pastini).

      What to add to chef boyardee spaghetti and meatballs? ›

      While Chef Boyardee Spaghetti And Meatballs is delicious on its own, you can add your preferred spices, like garlic powder, oregano, or red pepper flakes, to enhance the flavor to your liking. You can also top it with grated cheese or fresh herbs for added taste.

      How do you make store bought meatballs taste better? ›

      Allowing your meatballs to cook on the stove in a simmering sauce is a great way to flavor the meatballs and the sauce. Whether you are cooking your own meatballs or you bought them, you'll end up with the most tender meatballs. As they simmer, they will soak up so much of that delicious tomato sauce.

      How do you make boxed spaghetti taste better? ›

      Olive oil or butter and herbs. Adding a fat to the pasta makes it taste better if you're poor and need something. I also add oregano and/or basil. Butter, eggs, and cheese.

      What can you add to a jar of spaghetti sauce to make it taste better? ›

      Boost the Acidity

      Tomatoes are naturally acidic, but sometimes a jarred pasta sauce can lean too sweet, or just taste flat. Incorporating acids like lemon juice (and even zest) or red wine vinegar right before serving can round out your sauce.

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