Gordon Ramsay’s Meatballs and Spaghetti (with Ground Turkey)

This restaurant-quality dish brings together juicy, flavorful meatballs and a rich tomato sauce over perfectly cooked pasta. This version swaps out ground pork for ground turkey, making it a leaner yet still delicious alternative. Follow this step-by-step guide to recreate Gordon Ramsay’s signature Italian-inspired dish at home.

What Makes Gordon Ramsay’s Meatballs Special?

These meatballs stand out because they’re made with a blend of beef and turkey, keeping them juicy and flavorful while being slightly leaner. They’re seared to lock in moisture before being simmered in a homemade tomato sauce that enhances their taste. The addition of fresh herbs, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs creates a perfect balance of texture and flavor.

Other Gordon Ramsay Recipes

• Gordon Ramsay Turkey Gravy
• Gordon Ramsay’s Lemon Butter Caper Sauce
• Gordon Ramsay Parmesan Chicken
• Gordon Ramsay Shrimp Scampi

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly juicy meatballs – The combination of beef and turkey ensures a tender and flavorful bite.
• Rich and hearty tomato sauce – Made from scratch with fresh ingredients for an authentic taste.
• Classic comfort food – A timeless dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
• Easy to make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
• Restaurant-quality at home – Enjoy a gourmet pasta dish without leaving your kitchen.

Ingredients Needed for Gordon Ramsay’s Meatballs and Spaghetti

For the Meatballs:

• ½ lb (225g) ground beef
• ½ lb (225g) ground turkey (leaner alternative to pork)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• ½ cup chicken or beef stock
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

For the Spaghetti:

• 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
• 1 tsp salt (for boiling water)

For Garnish:

• Fresh basil leaves
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Gordon Ramsay’s Meatballs and Spaghetti

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough meatballs.

2. Form the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter) for even cooking.

3. Sear the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Carefully add the meatballs and sear on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.

4. Make the Tomato Sauce

In the same pan, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion until softened, then add minced garlic. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, stock, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Let simmer for 10 minutes to develop flavor.

5. Simmer the Meatballs

Return the seared meatballs to the sauce, cover, and let them simmer for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked. Stir occasionally and spoon some sauce over the meatballs for extra flavor.

6. Cook the Spaghetti

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

7. Combine and Serve

Plate the spaghetti, spoon the meatballs and sauce over the top, and garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

Best Sides to Serve with Gordon Ramsay Meatballs and Spaghetti

• Pair with garlic bread – A slice of crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the sauce.
• Serve with a fresh salad – A light arugula or Caesar salad adds a refreshing contrast.
• Add roasted vegetables – Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms complement the dish well.

Pro Tips for the Best Gordon Ramsay Meatballs and Spaghetti

• Use a mix of beef and turkey for a lean yet juicy texture – The combination balances flavor and tenderness.
• Sear the meatballs for extra flavor – Browning them before simmering helps lock in juices and create a rich, caramelized taste.
• Let the sauce simmer for deeper flavor – The longer it cooks, the richer and more balanced the flavors become.
• Cook the pasta al dente – This prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Reserve some pasta water – Adding a splash of starchy pasta water can help thicken and bind the sauce for a silky texture.

Creative Variations of Gordon Ramsay Meatballs and Spaghetti

• Make it spicy with extra chili flakes – Add more red pepper flakes for a fiery kick.
• Try all turkey meatballs for an even leaner option – Swapping out the beef makes this dish even lighter.
• Use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor – Swap dried oregano and basil for fresh versions to enhance the dish.
• Add mozzarella for a cheesy twist – Melt mozzarella on top of the meatballs for a gooey, rich finish.
• Make it gluten-free – Use gluten-free pasta and almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs in the meatballs.

Gordon Ramsay Meatballs and Spaghetti Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store in an airtight container – Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat on the stove for best results – Warm the meatballs and sauce over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
• Microwave with a damp paper towel – This helps prevent the meatballs from drying out.
• Freeze for later use – Store meatballs and sauce separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How do you keep meatballs from falling apart?

To prevent meatballs from falling apart, use a binder like breadcrumbs and eggs. Mixing the ingredients gently and not overworking the meat helps maintain their shape.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?

Yes, baking is a great alternative. Bake the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through before adding them to the sauce.

What is the best pasta to use with meatballs?

Spaghetti is the classic choice, but other pasta types like fettuccine, pappardelle, or penne work well for holding onto the sauce.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months for easy meal prep.

Final Thoughts

Gordon Ramsay’s Meatballs and Spaghetti is a classic dish that’s easy to make and full of rich, comforting flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe guarantees a satisfying meal that will impress everyone at the table. Try it today and enjoy a taste of Italian-inspired perfection at home!

Print