Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Cheesy Perfection

Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Cheesy Perfection

Turn a classic pasta dinner into a show-stopping casserole with this Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe! Layers of saucy spaghetti, juicy meatballs, and melted, golden cheese come together in a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight family meal or a potluck favorite, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s get started!


Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef or pork
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper

For the Spaghetti:

  • 12 oz spaghetti
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano

For the Cheese Topping:

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)


Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Meatballs

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Combine until just mixed.
  3. Roll into 1-inch meatballs and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until browned and cooked through.

2. Cook the Spaghetti

  1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook spaghetti until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

3. Prepare the Sauce

  1. In a large skillet, heat the marinara sauce, chicken broth, garlic powder, and oregano over medium heat. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
  2. Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss until fully coated.

4. Assemble the Casserole

  1. In a greased baking dish, spread half of the sauced spaghetti evenly.
  2. Add a layer of meatballs over the spaghetti.
  3. Top with the remaining spaghetti and sauce.
  4. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top.

5. Bake the Casserole

  1. Place the assembled dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  2. For a golden crust, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.

6. Serve and Enjoy

  1. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  2. Garnish with parsley for a pop of freshness and serve warm.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Hearty and Flavorful: Layers of pasta, meatballs, and cheese create the ultimate comfort meal.
  • Perfect for Sharing: This dish feeds a crowd and reheats beautifully.
  • Customizable: Use your favorite marinara sauce or swap mozzarella for provolone for a new twist.

Pro Tips for Success

  1. Homemade Sauce Option: Make your marinara sauce from scratch for an extra-special touch.
  2. Double the Recipe: Freeze one casserole for a quick and easy meal later.
  3. Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley elevates the flavor and presentation.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes! Pre-cooked frozen meatballs work perfectly and save time. Simply thaw and layer them in the casserole.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

3. Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.


Serving Suggestions

Pair your Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with:

  • Garlic Knots: Soft and buttery, they’re perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
  • Simple Salad: A crisp green salad with Italian dressing balances the rich flavors.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus make excellent sides.

Conclusion

This Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs is the ultimate comfort food that combines the best of Italian flavors in a single dish. From the juicy meatballs to the melty cheese, every bite is packed with goodness. Whether you’re preparing a meal for the family or bringing a dish to a gathering, this recipe is always a winner. Try it today and enjoy a classic with a baked twist!

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