This Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs is a hearty dish that brings the warmth of Italian-American cuisine to your table. With tender spaghetti, juicy meatballs, and a rich marinara sauce, it’s topped with gooey melted cheese, making it perfect for family dinners or friendly gatherings. Quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions, this dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The combination of homemade meatballs and marinara sauce creates a satisfying taste that will please everyone.
- Comfort Food: This dish embodies the essence of comfort food, offering warmth and satisfaction with every bite.
- Versatile: Perfect for various occasions like potlucks, family dinners, or casual get-togethers.
- Cheesy Goodness: The melted mozzarella on top adds an extra layer of creaminess that elevates this dish.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking dish
- Frying pan
- Saucepan
- Cooking spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients without spills.
- Baking dish: Provides even cooking space for your casserole-style meal.
- Frying pan: Necessary for browning the meatballs before baking.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup (50 g) breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Spaghetti
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
- 3 cups (700 ml) marinara sauce
For the Topping
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil (to prevent sticking)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley
How to Make Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
Step 2: Form Meatballs
Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.
Step 3: Brown the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti
While the meatballs are browning, cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
In a large baking dish, combine cooked spaghetti with marinara sauce. Gently stir in browned meatballs.
Step 6: Add Cheese
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top along with additional grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 7: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 8: Serve
Let rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil or parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs!
How to Serve Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs
Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Family Style
- Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish, allowing everyone to help themselves.
Individual Portions
- Spoon servings into individual plates or bowls for a more refined presentation.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish each serving with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and color.
With Extra Marinara
- Offer additional marinara sauce on the side for those who love extra sauce.
Accompanied by Garlic Bread
- Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
How to Perfect Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs
To achieve the perfect Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality meat make a big difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook spaghetti al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Mix Meat Well: Ensure your meat mixture is well combined for evenly shaped meatballs.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste your marinara sauce and adjust seasonings as needed before mixing.
- Let it Rest: Allow the baked dish to sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps set the layers.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese like provolone or gouda for unique flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs
Pairing your Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with the right sides can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Bread: A classic side that complements the rich flavors of spaghetti.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing adds freshness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted for a healthy, colorful addition.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides crunch and nutrients.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast.
- Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, cheeses, and cured meats perfect for sharing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can enhance the flavor and texture of your Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the meatball seasoning: Not seasoning your meatballs adequately can lead to bland flavors. Always use herbs and spices, like Italian seasoning and garlic, to boost taste.
- Overcooking the spaghetti: Cooking spaghetti too long before baking can make it mushy. Aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Choosing low-quality cheese: Using cheap cheese might result in a greasy top layer. Opt for high-quality mozzarella and Parmesan for that perfect melt.
- Ignoring sauce consistency: A sauce that’s too watery can make your dish soggy. Let your marinara simmer until it thickens before mixing it with the spaghetti.
- Neglecting to grease the dish: Not greasing your baking dish properly can lead to sticking. Use olive oil or cooking spray to ensure easy serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs
- Use a freezer-safe container or aluminum foil for wrapping.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of water or sauce in a pan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs:
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, using ground turkey is a great alternative that makes the dish lighter while still flavorful.
How do I know when my meatballs are cooked through?
Check that the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute meat with plant-based protein or lentils, and use vegetarian cheese options.
What should I serve with Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs?
A simple side salad or garlic bread complements this dish perfectly.
Final Thoughts
Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs is not just a comforting meal; it’s also versatile! You can customize it by adding vegetables or using different meats as per your preference. Give this recipe a try—your family will love it!
Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs
Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs is the ultimate comfort dish that combines the rich flavors of Italian-American cuisine with a cheesy, hearty twist. This easy-to-make casserole features tender spaghetti smothered in marinara sauce and topped with juicy meatballs, all covered in gooey melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this recipe delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious, it’s sure to become a cherished favorite at your table.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or beef and pork mix)
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (to prevent sticking)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Shape into 1-inch meatballs and brown them in a frying pan over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente; drain and toss with olive oil.
- In a baking dish, combine cooked spaghetti and marinara sauce; gently stir in browned meatballs.
- Top with mozzarella and additional Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let rest before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
