Few dishes feel more timeless than a steaming plate of spaghetti and meatballs — rich, comforting, and steeped in tradition. For Dean Martin, whose Italian roots ran as deep as his crooner’s voice, this was the kind of meal that reminded him of home. Pair that heritage with his storied connection to Las Vegas and the Golden Steer, and you’ve got a recipe that’s pure Rat Pack nostalgia with steakhouse-level flair.
This version leans into our Table 40 Seasoning Blend, a one-of-a-kind mix of whole Italian herbs that brings depth and authenticity to every bite. Layered with the balance of Sergio’s Seasoning, our chef-crafted salt-and-pepper replacement, this dish celebrates the flavors of Italy while honoring the Golden Steer’s iconic history.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably USDA Prime)
- ½ lb ground pork
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Sergio’s Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon Table 40 Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 lb spaghetti
- Extra Parmesan and parsley, for garnish
Directions
- Make the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, Sergio’s Seasoning, and half of the Table 40 Seasoning. Mix gently until just combined and roll into golf ball–sized meatballs.
- Brown the meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides (they don’t need to be cooked through yet), then remove and set aside.
- Build the sauce: In the same pan, add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, and the remaining Table 40 Seasoning. Stir, scraping up browned bits from the pan. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Return the meatballs: Nestle the browned meatballs back into the sauce, cover, and simmer gently for 25–30 minutes until the meatballs are tender and cooked through.
- Cook the pasta: Meanwhile, boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and toss lightly with a spoonful of sauce to coat.
- Serve: Plate spaghetti topped with meatballs and sauce, then finish with Parmesan and parsley.
Serving Tips
Classic style: Pair with a bottle of Chianti and crusty bread for a Rat Pack–approved dinner.
Vegas elegance: Serve in a large family-style platter, just as Dean would’ve shared at the Golden Steer.
Next day magic: These meatballs taste even better reheated — tuck leftovers into a sandwich roll for an Italian-style sub.
Why use Table 40 and Sergio’s?
Because they deliver the flavor of Italy with Golden Steer precision.
Table 40 Seasoning: Whole Italian herbs that infuse sauces, soups, and roasted meats with earthy, aromatic flavor — like an Italian grandmother’s kitchen, bottled.
Sergio’s Seasoning: A clean, balanced replacement for salt and pepper that ensures every ingredient shines without overpowering.
Together, they create an authentic, nuanced flavor profile that elevates a simple pasta night into a meal worthy of Dean himself.
Bring Vegas & Italy to Your Table
This Dean Martin–inspired recipe is more than comfort food — it’s a slice of heritage, a nod to the Golden Steer, and a taste of Rat Pack glamour.
Order Table 40 Seasoning and Sergio’s Seasoning today, and turn your next pasta dinner into a showstopper.
