Description
Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs
Ingredients:
Meatballs:
1 lb ground beef (or mix with ground pork)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Spaghetti:
12 oz spaghetti
3 cups marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions:
Make the Meatballs:
In a bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Roll into small balls and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cook the Spaghetti:
Boil the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and mix with 2 cups of marinara sauce.
Assemble the Dish:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large baking dish, layer the saucy spaghetti. Top with the baked meatballs.
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over everything.
Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously on top.
Bake:
Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish & Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, saucy goodness!
Let me know if you’d like more recipes or tips!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect baked spaghetti and meatballs every time. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for the meatballs. In a large bowl, gently combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, and seasonings. Overmixing can make meatballs tough. Roll into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes until browned. While they bake, cook the spaghetti to al dente, as it will soften further in the oven. Drain and immediately toss with the 2 cups of marinara sauce to prevent sticking. Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread the saucy spaghetti evenly. Arrange the baked meatballs on top, then pour the remaining sauce over them. Finally, blanket everything with the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish is a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks are classic for soaking up extra sauce. For a lighter side, try roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini. To present, serve directly from the baking dish for a family-style feel, garnished with extra chopped parsley or fresh basil.
How-to Summary
To summarize: 1) Mix and bake meatball ingredients at 400°F. 2) Cook spaghetti al dente and toss with most of the sauce. 3) Assemble in a dish: spaghetti, meatballs, remaining sauce, and cheeses. 4) Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly. 5) Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the dish completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I use store-bought meatballs? Absolutely. For a shortcut, use 20-24 high-quality frozen meatballs. Thaw them first or add a few extra minutes to the bake time.
How do I prevent the spaghetti from drying out? Ensure the noodles are well-coated with sauce before baking, and use all the sauce listed. The covered baking step also traps steam.
What’s the best cheese blend for topping? While mozzarella gives classic meltiness, mixing in provolone or fontina adds more flavor. Parmesan on top provides a savory, crispy crust.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or cover with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven until warm throughout.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the spaghetti before baking; al dente is key. Do not skip baking the meatballs first, as this renders fat and sets their shape, preventing a greasy final dish. Resist the urge to overmix the meatball ingredients, which leads to dense meatballs. Finally, ensure your baking dish is the right size (9×13 inch is ideal) so the layers are not too deep, allowing for even heating and cheese melting.
Conclusion
This baked spaghetti and meatballs recipe transforms a classic weeknight dinner into a spectacular, comforting casserole. The combination of juicy, herb-infused meatballs, tender pasta, rich marinara, and melted cheese is universally appealing. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks. It’s a versatile recipe that welcomes customization but always delivers on its promise of cheesy, saucy goodness.