There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of Spaghetti and Meatballs, where tender pasta meets savory, juicy meatballs in a rich tomato sauce. The flavors are a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and herbaceous, while the textures—silky noodles, hearty meatballs—create a satisfying bite every time.

Ready in just 40 minutes, this dish is a weeknight lifesaver that feels like a warm hug on a busy evening.

Each forkful delivers a burst of garlicky aroma, the richness of Parmesan, and the freshness of basil, making it a feast for the senses.

Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this classic recipe promises to bring smiles and full bellies without hours in the kitchen. It’s simple, timeless, and utterly delicious.

Ingredients for Spaghetti and Meatballs

8 ounces spaghetti (cooked al dente according to package instructions)
2 medium zucchini (spiralized into noodles)
Vegan Meatballs or Plant-Based Ground Meatballs (store-bought or homemade, about 2-3 per serving)
Marinara sauce (about 1 cup per serving, or to taste)
Fresh basil (chopped or torn, for garnish)
Extra-virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
Finely chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Salt and pepper (to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the noodles: In a large bowl, mix the cooked spaghetti and spiralized zucchini noodles until well combined.
Portion the noodles: Divide the noodle mixture evenly into 4 serving bowls.
Add the meatballs: Top each bowl with 2 to 3 vegan meatballs, placing them evenly over the noodles.
Add marinara sauce: Spoon generous amounts of marinara sauce over the meatballs and noodles.
Garnish: Sprinkle fresh basil and finely chopped parsley over each bowl for added flavor and color.
Drizzle with olive oil: Lightly drizzle extra-virgin olive oil over each serving for a finishing touch.
Season to taste: Add salt and pepper as desired, and serve immediately.

Creative Sauce and Topping Ideas

While marinara is a classic choice, try switching it up with pesto or a creamy cashew Alfredo sauce for a twist. For toppings, add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or toasted pine nuts for a crunchy finish. Don’t forget a dash of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat!

Perfect Pairings for Serving

This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or a side of garlic bread for a complete meal. For a lighter option, serve with a chilled glass of sparkling water with lemon or a crisp white wine. It’s also great for meal prep—just portion it out for easy lunches!

Storage and Reheating Made Easy

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm in a skillet with a splash of water to keep the noodles from drying out. For best results, add fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

Quick Time-Saving Tips

Save time by using pre-made vegan meatballs and jarred marinara sauce for a shortcut. If spiralizing zucchini feels like too much, swap in pre-spiralized zucchini noodles from the grocery store. You’ll have dinner on the table in no time!

Recipe Variations to Try

Swap spaghetti for gluten-free pasta or chickpea noodles for a different texture. If you’re not vegan, traditional meatballs or turkey meatballs work just as well. For a low-carb option, skip the spaghetti entirely and double up on the zucchini noodles!