Bring a taste of Italy to your dinner table with this comforting Italian Meatball Spaghetti Stack. Tender homemade meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce and served over perfectly cooked spaghetti make this classic dish a family favorite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, it’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30–40 minutes
Total Time: 50–60 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
1 lb (450 g) ground chicken or turkey
½ cup (50 g) breadcrumbs
¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg, lightly beaten
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, minced (or ½ teaspoon garlic powder)
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
1 can (28 oz / 800 g) crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried basil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Serving
1 lb (450 g) spaghetti
Extra grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken or turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
Shape the mixture into 16–20 small meatballs, about 1½ inches (4 cm) in diameter. - Make the Sauce
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5–7 minutes, until softened.
Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. - Simmer the Tomatoes
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. - Cook the Meatballs
Carefully place the meatballs into the simmering sauce, ensuring they are mostly submerged.
Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meatballs are fully cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly. - Cook the Spaghetti
Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain well. - Assemble and Serve
Divide the spaghetti among serving plates. Top with several meatballs and a generous spoonful of tomato sauce.
Finish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Tips
For extra flavor, use Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs.
Ground chicken and turkey both work well, but turkey provides a slightly richer flavor.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Enjoy this delicious Italian Meatball Spaghetti Stack—a comforting classic that’s sure to become a regular on your dinner menu!