Wolfgang Puck Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

Wolfgang Puck’s spaghetti and meatballs recipe is a welcome classic with a refined take.

I sooo love the combo of lean ground beef and pork, which makes the meatballs juicy and extra flavorful!

Make sure to simmer the tomato sauce slowly. This enhances the dish by allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

And don’t forget to cook those noodles al dente, giving them just the right texture to soak up the sauce.

How to Make Wolfgang Puck Spaghetti and Meatballs

Ingredients

• 1 lb. Spaghetti
• 1 ½ lbs. Ground Beef
• ½ lb. Ground Pork
• 1 can Tomatoes (32 oz.)
• 1 tsp Dried Oregano
• ½ tsp Dried Thyme
• 1 Bay Leaf
• Salt
• Black Pepper
• Fresh Parsley (chopped)
• Parmesan Cheese (grated)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rapid boil.

Add the spaghetti and cook it for around 7 to 8 minutes until it’s al dente.

Step 2:

While the spaghetti cooks, blend the ground beef and pork in a bowl.

Add in oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to season the mix.

Step 3:

Form small meatballs from the meat mixture using your hands.

Place the meatballs into the refrigerator to chill for at least 15 minutes.

Step 4:

Heat the tomato sauce in a large pot over medium heat.

Drop in the chilled meatballs and reduce the heat, letting them simmer for 45 minutes.

Step 5:

Once the spaghetti is done, drain it and stir into the tomato sauce with the meatballs.

Ensure the spaghetti is well-coated with the sauce.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Flavor the Meat Just Right

Mixing ground pork with ground beef gives a wonderful texture, and oregano adds depth that is ideal for this dish.

Give the Meatballs Some Chill Time

Putting the meatballs in the fridge helps them hold their shape, making them easier to cook without falling apart.

Don’t Forget the Bay Leaf!

Adding a bay leaf to your tomato sauce brings a subtle aroma that enhances the overall dish.

Go for Fresh Parmesan

Grating Parmesan cheese fresh over the dish just before serving gives a lovely finish without overpowering the flavors.

Use Al Dente Spaghetti

Cooking pasta al dente ensures that it absorbs the sauce better and has a satisfying texture when you eat it.

What to Serve with Wolfgang Puck Spaghetti and Meatballs

Garlic Bread

You can’t go wrong with a classic choice like garlic bread when serving spaghetti and meatballs.

The crusty exterior with a warm, buttery, and garlicky center pairs wonderfully with the rich tomato sauce.

Simply slice a baguette lengthwise, spread with garlic butter, and toast until golden brown.

Caesar Salad

A fresh Caesar salad is another fantastic side option to balance the flavors of the main dish.

Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons add a refreshing contrast to the meal.

You can enhance your salad with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked pepper.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables bring a vibrant and colorful twist to your meal, complementing the hearty pasta.

Try roasting a mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and a pinch of Italian herbs.

Their natural sweetness adds depth and texture that pairs perfectly with the meatballs.

Polenta Fries

If you’re looking to surprise your guests, serve polenta fries alongside your spaghetti and meatballs.

These crispy, golden fries offer a unique texture and taste that will have everyone asking for more.

Cut pre-cooked polenta into fry shapes, bake them, and provide marinara sauce for dipping.

Caprese Skewers

Caprese skewers are a fun and elegant way to incorporate fresh flavors with your main dish.

Use cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves skewered onto toothpicks for a fun presentation.

Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a burst of tangy flavor that highlights the richness of the spaghetti sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

Different Meats

You can use a combination of beef, pork, and veal for the meatballs, creating a unique flavor.

If you prefer something leaner, go for turkey or chicken as a substitute.

Experiment with different ground meats to find what suits your taste best.

Pasta Options

While classic spaghetti is fantastic, feel free to mix it up with linguine or fettuccine.

If you need a gluten-free option, try using your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Using whole wheat pasta can add a bit more fiber to this dish.

Gluten-Free and Vegetarian

For a vegetarian twist, use plant-based meat alternatives instead of traditional meats.

Opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs if you need a gluten-free version of this dish.

You can adjust seasoning to bring out the flavors of your chosen ingredients.

Sauce Variations

Add a bit of heat with crushed red pepper flakes in the tomato sauce if you like it spicy.

Try using fresh tomatoes instead of canned for a chunkier, fresher sauce.

Adding vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers can enhance the sauce further.

How to Store Leftover Wolfgang Puck Spaghetti and Meatballs

When you’ve made too much spaghetti and meatballs, storing them properly is crucial for future enjoyment.

You can keep leftovers fresh and tasty!

Storing in Airtight Containers

Use airtight containers—glass or plastic works just fine!

This helps keep air out and flavors in.

Sealing tight is key to preserving taste and texture.

Keep them in the fridge for up to three days.

Preventing Stickiness

Add a light drizzle of olive oil to the spaghetti before placing it in the container.

This will help prevent the noodles from sticking together.

You’ll thank yourself later when it’s time to reheat!

Freezing for Longer Storage

If you want to keep them for more than a few days, freezing is the way to go.

Divide spaghetti and meatballs into meal-sized portions and place them in freezer-safe bags.

Lay flat to save space and freeze for up to two months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Spaghetti

You might be tempted to cook the spaghetti until it’s super soft, but avoid overcooking it.

Make sure to aim for “al dente,” which gives your dish the right texture.

Skipping the Seasoning for Meatballs

Don’t forget to season your meatballs generously.

It’s easy to overlook, but seasoning makes a world of difference in flavor.

Make sure to include parsley, thyme, and oregano for a wonderful aroma!

Not Allowing Enough Simmer Time

Allow the sauce to simmer with the meatballs for at least 45 minutes.

A quick simmer might seem fine, but rushing could result in flavors not fully developing.

Give the sauce the time it needs for a rich taste.