What’s better than a plate of spaghetti and meatballs?
A baked spaghetti and meatballs casserole that brings all the cozy flavors of this Italian-American classic to a whole new level!
With layers of tender spaghetti, flavorful marinara, juicy meatballs, and ooey-gooey melted cheese, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is as comforting as it is delicious.
So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this cheesy, hearty masterpiece!
Ingredients for Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious baked pasta dish:
- Spaghetti: Use regular, whole wheat, or gluten-free pasta as needed.
- Meatballs: Homemade or store-bought, depending on your time and preference.
- Marinara Sauce: A rich, flavorful sauce is key. Choose your favorite store-bought brand or make it from scratch.
- Cheeses: Shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan for gooey, cheesy goodness.
- Seasonings: Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to boost flavor.
- Olive Oil: To prevent pasta from sticking.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish.
- Veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition.
Variations and Customizations
Want to make this dish your own? Here are a few ideas:
- Add Vegetables: Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage in place of ground beef.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based cheeses to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
Tips for the Best Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs
- Prevent Dryness: Toss the cooked spaghetti with a bit of marinara sauce before layering to keep it moist.
- Even Cooking: Ensure the meatballs are fully cooked before baking to avoid uneven texture.
- Meal Prep: Assemble the dish a day ahead and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven!
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Complete your meal with these perfect side dishes:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is a must-have!
- Caesar Salad: A fresh, tangy salad balances the rich flavors of the casserole.
- Roasted Veggies: Try broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus for a healthy side.
For drinks, pair this dish with a glass of red wine like Chianti or Zinfandel. For a kid-friendly option, sparkling apple cider is a great choice!
FAQ‘s
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh before serving.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until warmed through.
What’s the best cheese for this dish?
Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, but you can also use provolone or a sprinkle of ricotta for extra creaminess.
Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb 450 g ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- ½ cup 50 g breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup 25 g grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil for frying
For the Casserole:
- 12 oz 340 g spaghetti
- 3 cups 700 ml marinara sauce
- 2 cups 200 g shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup 50 g grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil to prevent sticking
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-2 inch meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the meatballs on all sides until browned (about 8 minutes). They don’t need to be fully cooked as they will finish cooking in the oven.
Cook the Spaghetti:
- Boil the spaghetti in a large pot of salted water for 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions for al dente. Drain and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil to prevent sticking.
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Add half the cooked spaghetti, spreading it evenly.
- Arrange the seared meatballs on top of the spaghetti.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the meatballs and spaghetti.
- Sprinkle garlic powder and Italian seasoning over the sauce.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake:
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Garnish and Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!