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Real Meatballs and Spaghetti
Copyright, 2002, Barefoot Contessa Family Style, All Rights Reserved Show: Barefoot Contessa Episode: Boss for Dinner Overall User Rating: 
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Great Recipe
07/02/2008 at 02:17pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
Great food. Not too hard to make as long as you have time and it makes you look like your a really great cook.
Very Good-But
05/09/2008 at 11:22pm
User: LORI from Pittsburgh, PA User Rating:
I gave this receipe three stars for it did lack in flavor, but however, I did read the previous reviews and added basil, parsley, sugar, and more garlic, & oregano to give it more of an Italian taste. I did the same for the meatballs. So basically, it was a good starter sauce. I do like Ina's many other receipes but this one was not one of my favorites.
Gourmet all the way!
05/04/2008 at 11:32pm
User: Sherry from Ormond Beach, FL User Rating:
I would pay big bucks for this at a high-end restaurant!
finally a good easy meatball recipe!!!
05/01/2008 at 10:08pm
User: Lisa from burleson, TX User Rating:
I made this for dinner tonight and I loved the meatball recipe. My ten year old halped make them and it was fun - smealt great and easy. The sauce was good but I added fresh basil at the end and Next time I will useless onions - the onionI used was hugh - my fault - but all in all very good and will make again. Thanks Ina - love your recipes!
awesome!
04/28/2008 at 07:49pm
User: lois from Cartersville, GA User Rating:
this recipe was easy for me to make. my husband and i had family over for dinner and i was so proud of serving them this meal. delicious!
nutmeg in meatballs yuk!
04/24/2008 at 05:56pm
User: camille from lighthouse pt., FL User Rating:
First add garlic, take out nutmeg. Second add oregano and basil to sauce. Third pot of water omit oil,pasta doesn't stick very well. Sorry! Ina I love you. But not this one. Gave 2 stars for almost there.
The Best Sauce Ever!
04/24/2008 at 09:51am
User: Kimberly from Duluth, GA User Rating:
I actually googled upon this recipe posted on another site and had to try it out. I left out the veal, and used 3/4 pound of ground beef and 1/2 pound of ground pork. (I actually had to get links and take the pork out of the casing.) Also, I don't typically have white bread, so I bought some crouton like toasted bread slices from Publix. Since they were so dry, I added about 2 T of milk before mixing with the rest of the ingredients. Next time, I will use fresh bread, I think it makes a difference. Also, used dry herbs since there was no fresh flat-leaf Parsley at grocery. I agree with other posters. By the time the sauce simmers, the meatballs pick up a lot of the sauce. So, if you like it saucy, I would recommend either 1.5ing or doubling the recipe. I did just slightly brown my meatballs in skillet and then cook them 10 more minutes in 350 oven. They were good, but next time, I will just do the browning as some of the cheese oozed out in the oven. They were still GREAT meatballs. I do have a question, I am not a wine drinker, so this may have been one of my first experiences with Chianti. (We won't discuss how hard it was to get the cork out!) But, I am afraid, being a red wine, it gave me a migraine. Can anyone recommend a red wine alternative? I have always used Sherry in my spaghetti sauce in the past, but comparing with this sauce, I see that the Sherry made it to sweet and alcohol tasting. So, what else can I use? Thanks for another great recipe Ina! Between this and your Grown up Mac & Cheese, I am carb loving it! Good thing you can get fiber rich pastas now!
Excellent meatballs
04/15/2008 at 11:01am
User: Krista from Evansville, IN User Rating:
The whole recipe is great as is, and I'm really excited about the meatballs in particular. I've used them in several different dishes now, and everyone loves them. After watching Bobby Flay's lasagna throwdown where his competitor used meatballs instead of plain ground beef or sausage in his lasagna, I made this meatball recipe and crumbled them and added them to my lasagna instead of the same old sausage/beef mixture. It was a hit! I highly recommend this one.
Real Meatballs and spaghetti
04/12/2008 at 01:05pm
User: Kurt from zumbrota, MN User Rating:
This was a very easy and delicious
The Best Meatballs Ever
03/16/2008 at 03:00pm
User: maureen from metuchen, NJ User Rating:
These meatballs were gone before anything else and I made extra!!! Everyone loved them and asked for the recipe they are great
Best Balls 'N Sauce
03/09/2008 at 12:19am
User: Jennifer from Lutz, FL User Rating:
I'm not Italian and was NOT raised on Italian food....that said...I tried this recipe for my boyfriend and he LOVED it!!! The wine in the sauce makes the difference from other sauces. And the meatballs were so tender and moist. I've made this twice now and we've eaten it for a week straight both times! Thanks Ina!
Seasonings a little off
03/01/2008 at 09:43pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I would make this again, but I would cut down or eliminate the nutmeg (I thought the nutmeg taste was a little strange, but it didn't ruin the meatball by any means), and cut down on the salt in the meatballs. I added garlic to the meatball itself, and in the future would consider adding some finely chopped onion also. The sauce was great, and I think it will taste even better tomorrow. I used a Pinot Noir and added some dried Italian seasoning as well.
No veal version
02/26/2008 at 07:47pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
It was excellent. I don't eat veal and substituted equal portions of beef and pork, and it turned out well.
Could Life Get Any Better?
02/14/2008 at 03:48pm
User: Craig from Phoenix, AZ User Rating:
This is an absolute favorite and some of the best comfort food I make for my family. We all love it. We do like a bit more sauce so I generally use a dutch oven for the entire process and double the sauce recipe. What's ever left over I freeze for the next time.
Was OK
02/11/2008 at 09:47am
User: Anonymous User Rating:
The meatballs were definitely moist but lacked some flavor.
Simple and Delicious!!
02/03/2008 at 11:03pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I've tried many recipes and I have to say that this is one recipe that is simple and super tasty. I did not use veal. The meatball were great. I doubled up on the meatballs with pork and beef and tripled the sauce recipe and cooked the sauce for about 3 hours. Will use this again, fantastic!!
I'm Italian and I liked this!
02/03/2008 at 07:28pm
User: Emma from Greenfield, MA User Rating:
Very good, a new way to make the classic dish. I used the beef and pork only. Definitely need to increase the sauce as it absorbs quickly.
meatballs
01/30/2008 at 06:00am
User: Anonymous User Rating:
great meatballs
Ina did it again!
01/28/2008 at 02:21pm
User: PENNY from Holyoke, MA User Rating:
I've looked a long time for a good Italian meatball and spaghetti recipe, and I can now stop looking. I served this dish not too long ago, and although it takes a little time, it was well worth the effort. I got absolute rave reviews for the meatballs. Thanks, Ina
Scrumptious
01/26/2008 at 09:31pm
User: Chris from Elysburg, PA User Rating:
It was outstanding. I recommend this to each and every one of you.
great!
01/26/2008 at 08:33pm
User: L'Tonya from Matteson, IL User Rating:
this was absolutely great! the meatballs were very moist! a little less oil next time though
Very Good
01/24/2008 at 09:42am
User: Angela from Fairhope, AL User Rating:
The sauce is excellent, would have given it 5 stars. The wine reduction gives it a depth of flavor that was truly fantastic. I will use the sauce recipe forever. I doubled the recipe, keep in mind if you do this the cooking time doubles also. The meatballs were good, but, I am still searching for the perfect meatball.
Best Ever
01/22/2008 at 04:14pm
User: Russ from Marana, AZ User Rating:
5 stars are not enough. 10 might do. These are the best meatballs I've ever tasted, and the sauce is right up there with the finest. I have no need to look for a spaghetti and meat ball recipe again. Perfect. I make them often and try to keep some in the refrigerator or freezer for those nights when we just don't want to cook. THANK YOU INA GARTEN!
Way to go, Ina!
01/20/2008 at 06:42pm
User: Leslie from Amarillo, TX User Rating:
I am a spaghetti lover from way back, but don't really like anyone's recipe buy my own. Until now...this is fabulous! I added a little thyme and oregano, but the meatballs are the best I have ever had. I received rave reviews from my husband. Thanks, Ina...you are the best!
Perfect
01/18/2008 at 04:27pm
User: L from Gig Harbor, WA User Rating:
This recipe is perfect in every way. I used some of the previous reviews to tweek it to perfection, like adding more spices, using 1/2 beef and 1/2 Italian Sausage, doubling the sauce recipe and baking the meatballs to cut down on grease. Possibly the best spaghetti & meatballs I have ever had!
Delicious meatballs
01/17/2008 at 06:39pm
User: Stacey from Hidden Valley Lake, CA User Rating:
I've never made a recipe from the barefoot contessa before, this was my first. We only made the meatballs, as my mom wanted to make her own sauce. But the meatballs were delicious! Moist, fluffy, with great flavor. They were a hit at the dinner party. I highly recommend.
Loved it!
01/16/2008 at 09:44pm
User: Janet from Dripping Springs, TX User Rating:
Every time I make meat sauce for spaghetti, my husband always asks for bigger meat chunks. Boy was he happy with this recipe! He loved it and asked me to only make "this kind" from now on.
That's IT!
01/15/2008 at 07:34pm
User: V. from Avalon, NJ User Rating:
I don't need any Spaghetti and Meatball recipe other than this one! After making spaghetti and meatballs for 30 years I can honestly say nothing else compares to this simple yet rich dish. I just knew that if Ina made this dish, it was worth trying. Instead of saying "who needs another spaghetti and meatball recipe?" I am so glad I gave this try. Truly delectable. I went into my recipe files and threw away all of the other meatball recipes. This one is IT!
A keeper!
01/12/2008 at 12:41pm
User: null from null, null User Rating:
I made this last night and it was excellent. I read the reviews first and reduced the salt. I omitted nutmeg. The grocery store did not have ground veal so I did without. I used a large can of plum tomatoes with basil. I added Italian seasoning as well. My husband loved the meatballs and the sauce. This is a keeper. Thank you Ina. I love your recipes.
amazing
01/11/2008 at 12:40pm
User: Amanda from Beaufort, SC User Rating:
i made this meal for a birthday dinner for my husband. it was fantastic!!!
perfect meatballs and spaghetti
01/10/2008 at 08:43pm
User: Nicole from Oro Valley, AZ User Rating:
I made this for my anniversary dinner with my husband. We decided to stay in and celebrate with our family. Everyone, including my two little girls absolutely loved this dish. It is now a family favorite. It does take a little work, but it is so worth it. It is the perfect dish for a family dinner or even for company. I know this will be a dish I will be serving for many years to come.
Better than most Italian restaurants.
12/20/2007 at 10:44pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
This recipe is very easy and delicious. I used half ground Italian sausage and half ground beef. I also used panko breadcrumbs instead of the fresh crumbs (lazy). The only other thing I would change is to double the sauce recipe. There really wasn't enough for 4 people if you like plenty of sauce.
Perfect family meal
11/28/2007 at 02:09pm
User: Dawn from Blue Point, NY User Rating:
I loved this, my 5 year old helped with the meatballs and we both had a great time making them. Also my husband said he would have it again, and my daughter who eats nothing loved it. It was very good.
YUMMY!
11/27/2007 at 09:31am
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I have never cooked homemade meatballs and sauce before, but I decided to try this because it seemed pretty simple, and it really was. I took other reviews into account and doubled the sauce recipe - I was glad I did. I also thought that the sauce needed a little somethin' extra, so I added about 1 1/2 tbsp of sugar and a touch more salt...probably because I grew up on jarred sauce. It was delicious.
The best!
11/25/2007 at 10:05am
User: Anonymous User Rating:
The sauce is AMAZING--truly the best I've ever tasted. Tastes like something from an authentic restaurant in Little Italy. Meatballs are delicious, but the sauce is really what makes this dish. Pair it with imported Italian pasta for a fabulous dinner. My husband says it's the best he's ever had--and his mom is Italian, so that is quite a compliment!
Simple yet delicious
11/18/2007 at 09:04pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
Doesn't get much easier than this, yet it is as good as any of the complicated recipes out there.
wonderful!
11/11/2007 at 06:25pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
A wonderful dinner for a cold Sunday Football day in NY. The house was smelling great. Enjoy!
Delicious
11/09/2007 at 11:44pm
User: Tanda from Sacramento, CA User Rating:
This was a wonderful and easy recipe. The meal was excellent and better than any restaurant.
Absolutely wonderful
11/02/2007 at 03:32pm
User: Jill from Harrisonburg, VA User Rating:
Even if you dont use the three types of meat, ground beef works perfectly. So moist, so flavorful (I add a little garlic) and perfectly browned on the outside and moist on the inside. A+
best ever
10/30/2007 at 10:56am
User: susan from hudson, FL User Rating:
Stick to the recipe. They are the most moist meatballs ever and the sauce is to die for.
To get the full flavor....
10/11/2007 at 01:22pm
User: Abigail from Cruz Bay, VI User Rating:
make them the day before you plan to serve them. I think they are okay the day they are made, but wonderful if you give them a day to rest and let the flavors come together.
Tender, Beautiful, Delicious!
10/06/2007 at 11:27pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
The sauce is so amazingly flavorful and the meatballs are tender, moist, and delicious. It was fun to make, and got RAVE reviews!!!
Very Good!
10/02/2007 at 02:48pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I used 1/2 beef and 1/2 turkey, otherwise followed the recipe exactly and they were delicious. Fresh parsley from the garden makes them extra special.
Quick and delicious!
10/01/2007 at 09:07pm
User: Suzanne from Cleveland, OH User Rating:
I made this, but with a few substitutions, and I still think it was terrific! First, I used ground turkey instead of beef. Second, I used panko bread crumbs instead of white bread crumbs (just had them handy). Third, I opted to bake the meatballs instead of frying them to make it a little more healthy! They were still really moist, delicious, and flavorful. This was surprisingly easy to whip up, and made for a great weeknight dinner!
Delicious
09/27/2007 at 04:38pm
User: vanessa from montgomery, AL User Rating:
This was a fantastic recipe. I really had fun preparing it. The meatballs were so tender and juicy. My family loved it. Thanks
WONDERFUL, WONDERFUL, WONDERFUL
09/19/2007 at 05:23pm
User: Kathy from D'Iberville, MS User Rating:
Whoever said this recipe has no flavor must be not have a very good sense of taste! This is a very flavorable recipe and the best meatballs I have ever made! This meal got a BRAVO from my whole family (who are not a easy bunch to please) and so that means it goes into my recipe box. Be sure to follow the recipe and you will get a VERY italian supper worth the time it takes to make!
Outstanding
09/19/2007 at 02:05pm
User: Lisa from Canton, MI User Rating:
My husband and I loved this recipe. It takes a simple dish like spaghetti and kicks it up to gourmet status. The only thing I did differently was add a few dashes of italian seasoning and some sugar to the sauce. The meatballs were very moist and we loved the hint of nutmeg. I will definitely make this again.
very good
09/19/2007 at 03:15am
User: kelly from INDIANAPOLIS, IN User Rating:
This recipe was great! The flavor was wonderful, like other reviewers I think you should double the sauce(better for dipping your bread), I used hot italian sausage instead of lamb and the flavor was zipping! It really is a little time consuming, but worth it!
Great Meatballs! Sauce needs more flavor.
09/18/2007 at 02:10pm
User: Mary from New Brunswick, NJ User Rating:
I usually bake meatballs so they don't have too much fat from the oil, but these are delicious fried when you have been dieting all week! The cheese adds immense flavor! I just wish the sauce had more flavor. Maybe more herbs would do the trick.
An Italian staple
09/18/2007 at 02:07am
User: NICKY from Irvine, CA User Rating:
This recipe turned out wonderfully! It's a great meal for entertaining too - once the meatballs are finishing in the sauce, you can enjoy your company, pausing only to throw the garlic bread in the oven and toss the spaghetti in the boiling water. My friends and family all loved it!
TOO SALTY!
09/17/2007 at 03:50pm
User: Tiffany from somewhere, MA User Rating:
I normally LOVE Ina's recipes but both the meatballs and sauce were too salty! I gave it four stars because the meatballs were very moist and I did see potential in the dish but next time I will try with half the called for salt. I hope it works!
This one is a keeper!
09/15/2007 at 10:47am
User: Susan from Hattiesburg, MS User Rating:
The recipe is missing one ingredient. Water! On the show she adds water to the meatball mixture. The got this tip from a resaurant, and it is suppose to make the meatballs moist. I did just that, and the meatballs were wonderful. I used chicken stock instead of wine, and it was delicious.
Yummy
09/12/2007 at 08:41am
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I only made the meatballs and kept my own sauce, but they were great. I followed her recpie to a T and I loved how soft the meat balls were. It is 5 stars for me.
Not bad, but not great
09/11/2007 at 09:00pm
User: NIck from Holbrook, NY User Rating:
I found it too salty, and I measured everything. I liked the wine reduction, but skipped the nutmeg. Could have used more sauce, also. I would use the recipe again, but with half the salt, and add maybe some fresh basil.
amaizing
09/11/2007 at 05:19pm
User: victor from astoria, NY User Rating:
easy and fast to do i loved it
YUMMMMM YUMMMMM
08/22/2007 at 12:46pm
User: Tim from Anderson, SC User Rating:
I love this recipe it is easy to do. I have made it with beef broth because I did not have red wine and it was great. It is also good with the red wine too. I have added mushrooms and sometimes peppers and it is the best. I am very picky when it comes to spaghetti and meatballs, but this one is a keeper.
Thanks Ina!
08/17/2007 at 10:13am
User: diana from miromar lakes, FL User Rating:
Couldn't get the ground veal but used other ingredients as listed ~ a delicious Italian recipe my guests consumed with delight. I'm an 'overnight' believer when it comes to Italian sauces...fix it the day before to enhance flavors. Warmed it in the crockpot the following day (I love the new crockpot liners by the way) for 5 hours on low and my oh my, our tastebuds were doing gymnastics! The meatballs were flavorful and moist (I was sure to not overwork in the prep). I will repeat this meal for years. Thanks Ina!
Great!
08/11/2007 at 01:14am
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I've never made meatballs before or my own sauce. First try was great! I've never been so impressed with myself.
Ina's Real Meatballs
08/07/2007 at 02:49pm
User: jennifer from Chicago, IL User Rating:
Holy cow are these amazing! You will definitely make friends with this recipe. I even got my 7 & 8 year old nieces to eat meatballs (they helped make them...). The sauce is just wonderful as well!
Pretty "authentic"
08/01/2007 at 01:13pm
User: Vicki from St. Louis, MO User Rating:
I love Italian food and this has such an authentic taste. It does of course depend on what part of Italy you are authenticating, lol, but this is wonderful recipe to introduce your kids for authentic flavor!
*****
07/26/2007 at 04:18pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
na
Fabulous!
07/25/2007 at 05:15pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
This was my first try at a meatball recipe! It was fantastic.... Ina as always, you're one of the best!
...I think it might be me?
07/25/2007 at 12:44pm
User: Maria from burlingame, CA User Rating:
The recipe sounds fantastic!!! When I made it I was a little disappointed. It did not have that immediate ?wow? flavor. A tip, double the sauce that the recipe calls for, there really isn?t enough- I would even recommend going with 2 ? cans of tomatoes- add everything else in proportion. I would also puree the tomatoes to avoid the little chunks- unless you like your sauce chunky. :)
Best Spaghetti and Meatballs!!!
07/11/2007 at 12:04am
User: Desiree from Seattle, WA User Rating:
I have made many spaghetti and meatball recipes and this is by far the best. My boyfriend and his friend also really enjoyed it. I made this with Ina's recipe for Green Salad with Creamy Mustard Vinaigrette and it went well with it.
Delicious, but...
07/02/2007 at 09:50am
User: Anonymous User Rating:
If you like a lot of sauce with your spaghetti, I would double the sauce recipe. I ended up having to add tomato puree (it was all I had in my pantry) as I went, and even though I added extra seasoning, it diluted the true flavor of this recipe. I ended up with about 25 meatballs, and I think they just soaked up too much sauce after I added them back in.
From a Spaghetti Expert
07/01/2007 at 11:04pm
User: Gillean from Dallas, TX User Rating:
Spaghetti and Meatballs is my absolute favorite dish, and this recipe did not dissapoint. My husband made it for me and used all ground beef instead of the pork and veal. It was awesome. Barefoot has done it again!
OMG!
06/17/2007 at 09:27pm
User: Kristi from Peekskill, NY User Rating:
My husband requested this recipe for Father's Day dinner after he saw this episode. So I made it for him. Really simple recipe, simple ingredients, outstanding flavors!! I will definately be making this again.
The BEST meatballs EVER!
06/14/2007 at 11:51am
User: Melissa from Burkburnett, TX User Rating:
I have been trying for years to come up with a really great meatball. This was IT! I knew it was the second Ina started preparing them. The true secret was the warm water. Thank you Ina. I just love you....
Amazing taste!
06/13/2007 at 05:24pm
User: Rebecca from Morgantown, WV User Rating:
My boyfriend raved about this spaghetti and meatballs! It was so tasty, especially the sauce. I made extra and froze half of the meatballs for later. Would definitely make this dish for company.
She makes a great meatball
06/05/2007 at 12:32am
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I would heed the advice in the segment to not pack the meatball too firmly. I did by accident, and they were a little too compacted. The only modification I would make to this meatball is to add half the salt--the parmesan is salty, and they came out a bit saltier than I like.
Barefoot Meatballs
06/02/2007 at 03:48pm
User: jill from Hilton Head, SC User Rating:
These meatball are the best I have ever eaten. My family loves them and they are easy to make. I usually double the recipe and freeze half.
Most tasty spaghetti and meatballs ever!
06/01/2007 at 06:13pm
User: MICCA from west van lear, KY User Rating:
I have never had spaghetti and meatballs with so much flavor! I think I will cut back on the salt in the sauce the next time. BTW....$5 red wine works great! I am too cheap to buy the expensive stuff.
3 meats = 3 times more delicious
05/24/2007 at 02:38pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
this is wonderful addition to my fav's
Fabulous Spagetti!
05/21/2007 at 12:52pm
User: Tina from St. Peterbsurg, FL User Rating:
I've tried several recipes and this one is by far, the best! The nutmeg in the meatballs really makes all the difference in the world! Thanks Ina!
Jump on the GONDOLA!!!!
05/19/2007 at 08:04pm
User: joanna from murray, KY User Rating:
Easier than it seems....delicious.....if the meatballs seemed too greasey brown them in the oven....DA! I doubled the recipe and served it to a crowd along with my Italian Sausage & Green Pepper/Onion family recipe and it was a hit..... Ciao!
It's a hit!
05/17/2007 at 03:28pm
User: Anji from Sand Springs, OK User Rating:
I use angel hair pasta for my spaghetti and my friends and family loved it.
ciao bella
05/08/2007 at 12:22am
User: TONY from Kailua-Kona, HI User Rating:
Wonderful.. rich depth of flavors.. excellent!
Everyone loved
04/28/2007 at 12:05pm
User: Rebecca from san pedro, CA User Rating:
Made for a dinner party and everyone loved it. Leftovers will make a great meatball sandwich next day. Highly recommend.
Much Better the Next Day
04/21/2007 at 11:42pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I made the meatballs with the beef, veal and pork the night before a dinner party. That night I didn't like them so the next day I made them again using only beef and I loved them. But I also loved the ones I made with beef, veal and pork. I served the beef only meatballs and everyone loved them. They were so good we ate the meatballs and sauce for the entire week (sandwiches, on their own, etc.) Again, as leftovers the "combo-meat"balls were also very good. I will definitely make these again. I'll still stick to all-beef however because the "combos" are a bit fatty for my taste.
fantastic
04/13/2007 at 05:49pm
User: Christina from Kansas City, MO User Rating:
I sought this recipe out for a second time as it was a crowd pleaser the first time I served it. It was easy enough and yet I used all fresh ingredients and that made it a special meal to serve to my family. The meatballs are moist, juicy and flavorful. Planning on enjoying it again!
taste
03/26/2007 at 09:39am
User: Lorraine from Milford, CT User Rating:
This is one of my favorite recipes. Everytime I make it I get rave reviews! I used only ground beef in the meatballs this time and it was amazing.
A winner !!!
03/11/2007 at 01:25am
User: CHERRY from OC, CA User Rating:
I made this meatball recipe to accompany cheese lasagna at a buffet-style party, this way I could please the vegetarians as well as the meat eaters. Being busy with the other party dishes, I used a jarred "3 cheese" pomodoro sauce from Trader Joe's. And instead of letting them simmer in the pan with the sauce, I transferred them to a crock pot and let them cook on low for a few hours, then I turned the crock pot down to "warm" and they stayed great for the entire party. I also made about 30 meatballs from the recipe, so they were much smaller. Everyone REALLY loved them!!! Thanks for letting me "take all the credit," Ina!!!
the best
03/04/2007 at 10:14am
User: Anonymous User Rating:
This is the BEST Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe ever!!!! Thanks You
FABULOUS
03/01/2007 at 09:22pm
User: Letisha from Peoria, IL User Rating:
I love this recipe. It's simple and delicious! My family loves it as well! Thank you Ina!!!!!
Great Recipe
02/27/2007 at 09:52pm
User: Michelle from Lyndhurst, NJ User Rating:
We love this receipe! The best meatballs I've ever made.
Loved it!!!!
02/18/2007 at 12:23am
User: Jessica from Willow Springs, IL User Rating:
This was the 1st time I made homemade meatballs, and it was fantastic, cant wait to make it again
shabamm!
02/11/2007 at 07:18pm
User: TIsh from Wilmington, NC User Rating:
It what glorious! Time consuming, but well worth it!
A Family Favorite
02/09/2007 at 11:06am
User: Roper from Chesapeake, VA User Rating:
A long time searching for the right Meatballs and Spaghetti recipe and this is it! I increase the recipe by about 50%. The extra is great for quick snacks.
Yummy!
02/07/2007 at 10:47am
User: Anonymous User Rating:
Made this last night. Next time would use more fresh herbs in the sauce, and double it. Great meatballs!
Can I give these a six?
01/31/2007 at 04:04pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
these meatballs are excellent! They have good flavor and texture, as well as proper moisture levels. I ate them 3 times in one week and they never got old! Plus, they did not make me feel sick which is a common occurrence when meatballs and I mingle.
Finally!
01/25/2007 at 09:18pm
User: Beth from Fox Lake, WI User Rating:
I've done this one so many times...every time family visits...so easy, I remembered the recipe from the show. I've shared it with my mother, now its a staple when family visits her.
Simple and Delicious
01/22/2007 at 06:52pm
User: VICTORIA from Brecksville, OH User Rating:
As usual, Ina does it again. A simple, delicious meatball with just the right amount of seasoning and a great texture. Ina, when can I come to your house for dinner?
Lengthy process but worth it!
01/20/2007 at 01:50pm
User: Heather from Dallas, TX User Rating:
This took a while to prepare and I seemed to dirty every bowl and pan in the house but the end result was very good and kept in the fridge very well.
Shastin
01/19/2007 at 05:46pm
User: Shastin from Costa Mesa, CA User Rating:
These are the best meatballs I have ever tasted. Everyone loved them!
Made just the sauce
01/10/2007 at 07:54pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I made meatballs from another recipe but I made the sauce using Ina's recipe and it was absolutely delicious!!! The only thing I changed was that I cooked up 2 Italian sausage links in a different pan then cut them up and added it (my boyfriend & I love lots of meat in the sauce). Oh boy... letting that simmer with the sauce made a huge difference. The juices from the sausage oozed out and really enhanced the flavor. Tasted even BETTER re-heated the next day. Highly recommend this recipe!!
greg
01/03/2007 at 05:33pm
User: greg from barrow, AK User Rating:
very good
Rich sauce
12/31/2006 at 11:30am
User: Kathleen from Likttle Silver, NJ User Rating:
These meatballs are the best. Living near NY, you can't find great meatballs anywhere. These remind me of my mother-in-laws that took all day to make due to the sauce. The sauce and meatballs are delicious.
Really good
12/30/2006 at 07:02pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I am a good critic and a tough critic. I think that both the sauce and meatballs are really good. This is a recipe worth making and then repeating. It is comfort food-nothing fancy.
Absolutely delish!
12/26/2006 at 01:49am
User: Ellen from Pacific Palisades, CA User Rating:
I made this recipe, with all beef because I couldn't get the pork and didn't want to use veal. It came out fantastically well. I invited friends over for an informal dinner and it was the perfect dish. The sauce was fantastic, too.
eh
12/24/2006 at 08:48pm
User: Ariel from Crockett, CA User Rating:
this recipe is pretty good but when i'm gonna have spaghetti n meatballs i want it to be out of this world! i still haven't found the perfect recipe.
Excellent
12/12/2006 at 12:54pm
User: TIMOTHY from Dallas, TX User Rating:
I didn't use nutmeg and it was excellent. I'm serving this for some close friends for our hoiday dinner this weekend.
Bravo!
12/11/2006 at 01:35pm
User: Darlene from Fort Lauderdale, FL User Rating:
Coming from a Cicilian heritage and family recipes consisting of a handful of this and a dash of that, I am proud to give this review. I have never followed an exact meatball recipe before this. I stand corrected in the "following a written recipe" arena! Rather than wasting time pondering over what amounts to use and questioning what it was I did last time, this recipe has turned meatball making into a fun and easy task. Oddly enough, the ingredients are similar to what I've always used (with the nutmeg exception, omitted this ingredient) and I did add fresh Basil as it is a must for me with sauce. It was the simplicity of having it written down in a specific order with the ingredients in front of you to minimize prep. I've never done a wine reduction before, (usually added wine directly into the sauce), and I have to say it was amazing to watch and fun to do. As far as taste... absolutely delicious!
not from a jar
12/09/2006 at 11:36pm
User: Raulie from Golden Valley, MN User Rating:
This is so good. Very easy to make and the red wine gives it a very good flavor. Use less of the white bread if you don't want real soft meatballs.
Best Meatballs and Spaghetti Ever!
12/07/2006 at 11:20am
User: Phil from Richmond, VA User Rating:
Best meatballs/spaghetti ever.Even my Italian friends will want this receipe! This is a new weekly meal for my famliy-my husband even admitted this is better than his Mom's. I added fresh basil/oregano to the red sauce. Fabulous!
Just like in Italy
12/06/2006 at 07:10pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
This sauce was fabulous. I would need to double next time as it just wasn't quite enough for heating leftovers. This had the taste of some of the sauces we enjoyed on our recent trip to Italy.
Really GOOD meatballs and sketti!
12/06/2006 at 12:18pm
User: Linda from Holmdel, NJ User Rating:
How could anyone say these meatballs had no flavor??? They are amazing and so is the sauce. This is the definitive recipe for spaghetti and meatballs- the best Italian comfort food!
Fantastic!
12/05/2006 at 09:46am
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I made this recipe last week and must say that these were absolutely great! The meatballs very, very moist and flavorful and the tomato sauce was fatastic. My brother-in-law and husband; who aren't much on Tomato products found the sauce not as acidy as so many other recipes. Ina, I love your recipes:)
Meatballs
12/02/2006 at 08:18pm
User: Trevor from West Hollywood, CA User Rating:
This was a little bit on the greasy side. I would try baking the meatballs the next time I do this one.
Delicious Meatballs!
12/02/2006 at 01:27pm
User: Nancy from Raymond, ME User Rating:
I have had many different versions of meatballs and spaghetti. These meatballs were the best....succulant and moist. I added a few sprinkles of oregano and also some basil to the sauce. Yummy! I will make this often. I just love Ina!
Loved it
12/02/2006 at 12:06am
User: Anonymous User Rating:
Easy recipe with a great result! Needed a little more sauce though.
great meatballs
11/29/2006 at 05:25pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
These meatballs were great but a little time consuming.
maybe 4.5
11/06/2006 at 12:14pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
Not as tasty as I'd thought-made the Italian-American version, and those were better than these.. but these were easy-didn't make the sauce-not yet-will let you know.
5 star winner
10/20/2006 at 02:49pm
User: Scott from Bonita Springs, FL User Rating:
I have tried many recipe's for sauce and meatballs and this is the best I have ever had!
MARVELOUS MEATBALLS
10/20/2006 at 11:35am
User: Amber from Gardner, KS User Rating:
To all the people out there who said these meatballs had no flavor...did you follow the recipe??? I just made them for my husband last night, and we barely spoke any during dinner because we were both enjoying them SO much. They were moist, tender and delicious. The sauce was wonderful too! For those who said they wine flavor was too strong...you probably didn't cook the sauce long enough. Also, it was VERY easy to make and did NOT take 2 hours to prep like another reviewer said. Great recipe Ina, I look forward to leftovers tonight!!!
Excellent
10/18/2006 at 11:03am
User: Valerie from Troy, PA User Rating:
This is the best meatball recipe I've tried, and I don't even like meatballs that much. My whole family is pleased!
The best
10/10/2006 at 05:23pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
Great
Bad meatballs...okay sauce
10/03/2006 at 09:24pm
User: Renee from Canastota, NY User Rating:
If I could rate this separately I would give the tomato sauce about 4 stars and the meatballs a very tentative 2 stars. These meatballs have very little flavor. I had to doctor them up majorly to make them worth eating at all. The sauce isn't bad, especially considering the saute pan method. It was very easy to make and the flavor was decent, but it cannot replace the sauce recipe passed down to me from my Italian ancestors. Not even close! In Ina's defense, she is no "Italiana".
Boy Scout Dinner
09/29/2006 at 07:12am
User: JEFFREY from Beaver, PA User Rating:
When my friends son was having a spaghetti dinner to raise money for his Eagle Scout Project I volunteered to help. Meatballs was the request. I turned to Ina and was not disappointed. Those who say otherwise are mistaken. They were moist, and delicious. I used quality ingredients, freshly grated cheese, good bread, and 1/4 cup of milk in place of the same amount of water. I also baked them instead of frying. I turned them once in the oven, with a total time of 25-30 minutes at 350. I'm gonna make them again for home.
I can now make meatballs!!!
09/05/2006 at 03:58pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I'm so happy I found this recipe. I actually didn't have exactly all ingredients (such as an onion - I just used minced onion) and it came out great anyway! The flavor is so good I still can't believe I just made these meatballs and sauce! I like easy recipes and this is a great one!! I highly recommend it especially to first time cooks like myself!
the bomb
08/30/2006 at 01:48pm
User: J from Pinon Hills, CA User Rating:
My kids at seconds!! They all love the meatballs and the sauce!!
Good
08/28/2006 at 02:09pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
The recipe was good. The meatballs were not dry. I really liked the sauce more than the meatballs.
So Sorry - BAD meatballs and sauce
08/26/2006 at 11:49pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I have to be honest. I love Ina, typically her food is great and she is a delight to watch, however this was the worse meatballs and sauce ever. I made this dish for my husband and I and after eating a small plate each we threw out the entire remaining dish. The meatballs had barely any tast at all and the sauce was too winey and not fitting for pasta and meatballs in my opinion. Trust me on this one... PASS
Flavorful and hearty
08/25/2006 at 07:09am
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I used flavored bread crumbs and a very zesty parmesan.
Not worth it
08/22/2006 at 08:59pm
User: HEIDI from Overland Park, KS User Rating:
I have bought all Ina's cookbooks and everything she makes is awesome!!! However, this took 2 hours to makce, and it was bland. I was really dissapointed, but glad I didn't serve it to any dinner guests as they had cancelled. Thank goodness, they did, I would have been embarrassed.
Real Meatballs and Spaghetti - very good!
08/21/2006 at 03:14pm
User: SHELLY from Frisco, TX User Rating:
I made this for dinner last week and it was really good. It was a bit filling and would be good to make for company since it makes so much. I didn't realize how big the meatballs were. I agree with other posters, not enough sauce. I also didn't have veal on hand, so I just used pork and beef & it tasted fine. The leftover meatballs were great as subs. Next time I make this I will freeze 1/2 the meatballs for another time and make them smaller. Thanks for a great recipe Ina!!
Delicious!
08/21/2006 at 12:57pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I just made the meatballs this weekend and they are delicious! I did not use the veal, only the pork and ground beef -- didn't matter, still great! To save time, I used store-bought sauce.
Best Meat Balls Ever
08/19/2006 at 11:40pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
This is a delicious dish. Absoultly worth the effort.
Not the same
08/18/2006 at 04:58pm
User: M from Rancho Cucamonga, CA User Rating:
After watching the episode on TV, I looked up the recipe and it omitted a key step - the warm water to be mixed into the meatballs. Otherwise, they tasted good, moist and not too heavy. Additional flavor if they are simmered in good homemade sauce (like mine, not hers).
Meaty Meatballs
08/16/2006 at 06:44pm
User: Tina from Charlotte, NC User Rating:
Flavorful and tasty meatballs. Didn't use the red wine in the sauce and it still turned out great!
Amazing!!!!
08/16/2006 at 05:00pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
This recipe was amazing. I didn't have the 3 different kind of meats. I only had ground beef. I was moist and so flavorful. It was the best meatballs I have ever made.
love Ina but not this recipe
08/15/2006 at 05:25pm
User: GISELA from keller, TX User Rating:
I have 3 of Ina's cookbooks but just did not like the taste of this dish. It made a lot and nobody in my family seemed to like it very much. It was a waste.
rich and spicy
08/15/2006 at 04:14pm
User: charlene from oklahoma city, OK User Rating:
I got raves over the flavor and the texture of the meatballs and the richness of the sauce. Thanks Ina.
wow of the party
08/15/2006 at 08:04am
User: GIANILDA from lakeland, FL User Rating:
i served this dish for my daughters 1st birthday dinner. there were only left overs b/c i put some away.
could be better
08/15/2006 at 03:38am
User: Anonymous User Rating:
The meatballs were very moist and juicy.. however they did not have much taste to them at all.
Excellent
08/09/2006 at 10:07am
User: Anonymous User Rating:
This is a wonderful recipe. My husband and I both love it and will make it again.
Moist meatballs
08/09/2006 at 09:13am
User: Amelia from Newton, MA User Rating:
I kept questioning "are these meatballs cooked?" because they were so moist. They were delicious and easy to make.
Delish!
08/08/2006 at 09:01pm
User: JOYCE from ORANGE, VA User Rating:
These are excellent meatballs; very similar to other authentic (by old school Italians)recipes I have tried. Ina is one of the best cookbook authors out there; you will actually USE her cookbooks, as she gives out real recipes; she doesn't hold back. This is an example of another practical recipe by her. Keep up the great work, Ina!
Awesome meatballs
08/08/2006 at 04:50pm
User: Amanda from Milwaukee, WI User Rating:
They were great and very easy to get together in a short time. I live with my dad and boyfriend and they absolutely loved them. Thanks for the recipe!!
Family Dinner
08/08/2006 at 12:08pm
User: sahara from Indianapolis, IN User Rating:
Easy to do with my family Great Meatballs Will make again
Sauce was great but the meatballs left something to be desired
08/06/2006 at 03:11pm
User: TERRI from ewa beach, HI User Rating:
I guess I should have read the reviews more closely as I would have changed a few things about the meatballs or left them out all together. The sauce was great though and I will make that again. However, like a few other people mentioned I feel like I've seen these episodes a million times. Doesn't seem to be enough new ones coming out. MHO
REPEATS!!!!!!!!!!!!!
08/06/2006 at 12:34pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I think Ina is a great hostess and a great cok - HOWEVER - if I see one more repeat show I think I will SCREAM!!!!!!!!!!!!! Does anyone know if there are new shows coming out in the near future
A good base
08/04/2006 at 07:55pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I think this is a good base for meatballs and spaghetti. I was not impressed by the taste of the meatballs, maybe it was the nutmeg. I felt the taste was off and missing that zing. But they were very moist. As for the sauce I added some ingredients after reading some other reviews and it turned out well. I like to watch Ina but I have not found one of her recipes that I would rate a 5..I will keep looking and trying them out.
Amazing Sauce
08/04/2006 at 09:19am
User: Lisa from LaVista, NE User Rating:
Although the meatballs weren't my favorite, the sauce was out of this world!!! I thought it was close to the best I've ever tasted!
Meatballs were great
07/27/2006 at 02:34pm
User: Elizabeth from New York, NY User Rating:
recipe was really easy to follow. The meatballs came out so good. I never would of thought to add nutmeg to it. I felt the sauce was very acidic and would add sugar or carrots next time to cut the acidic taste. Overall, very good!
yum
07/27/2006 at 01:17pm
User: dennis from chepachet, RI User Rating:
excellent, and easy to prepare!
Excellent meatballs
07/25/2006 at 08:40pm
User: valerie from suwanee, GA User Rating:
Her sauce is good but I improved it.
Ina's real Meatballs and Spaghetti
07/15/2006 at 01:09pm
User: MaryJane from Waynesboro, PA User Rating:
The BEST meatballs I have ever made. I added a few fresh herbs to the sauce, but my company just loved the whole meal.
The best ever spaghetti and meatballs
07/11/2006 at 03:19pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I have been cooking homemade spaghetti and meatballs for a long time. This recipe tops them all. My family loved it and the meatballs just melt in your mouth. Delicious!!!
real meatballs and spaghetti
07/10/2006 at 04:49pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
super easy and the left overs only get better
Simply the best
07/10/2006 at 12:40pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I had to overcome inertia to find the ground veal and pork. Once I had all the ingredients, the recipe was easy to prepare. These were some of the best meatballs I have ever eaten. Restaurant quality.
so-so
07/09/2006 at 02:19pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
Was unable to find ground veal locally so used a combination of ground beef and pork, aside from that I followed the recipe and felt it was rather bland. While it was easy it did not have enough flavor for me and my family's taste.
WOW
07/09/2006 at 02:18pm
User: stephanie from Eden Prairie, MN User Rating:
This is amazing! Lick your plate good!
Rao's better?
07/07/2006 at 04:49pm
User: Nikki from Abita Springs, KY User Rating:
I have been making the Rao's sauce and meatballs for a few years, but adding the wine and a few other herbs gave this a wonderful flavor to an old friend.