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Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs

Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs

This Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs is a comforting Italian-American dish that combines tender spaghetti, juicy homemade meatballs, and a rich marinara sauce, all topped with bubbly, melted cheese.
It’s an easy-to-make casserole perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 6 Servings
Calories 450 kcal

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 9x13-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!
Keyword Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs