Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs is everything you love about traditional spaghetti and meatballs, but with the added comfort of baking everything together in one dish. The homemade meatballs are flavorful and juicy, while the spaghetti soaks up the rich marinara sauce, all topped with a golden, cheesy crust. It’s a convenient, no-fuss way to enjoy a classic meal, and it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef)
• 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

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

For the Meatballs:

1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
   • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
2. Form the Meatballs:
   • Roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should have about 16-20 meatballs, depending on the size.
3. Cook the Meatballs:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs to the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd them. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes, until they are golden brown. They don’t need to be fully cooked through at this stage since they will finish cooking in the oven. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

For the Casserole:

1. Cook the Spaghetti:
   • Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions, but reduce the cooking time by about 1-2 minutes to ensure the noodles are slightly undercooked. Drain and toss the spaghetti with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.
2. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
   • Add the cooked spaghetti to the dish and pour the remaining marinara sauce over the pasta. Toss the spaghetti in the sauce to coat it evenly.
   • Arrange the browned meatballs on top of the pasta.
3. Add the Cheese:
   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
   • Sprinkle the garlic powder and Italian seasoning on top of the cheese for extra flavor.
4. Bake the Casserole:
   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
   • After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

To Finish:

1. Garnish and Serve:
   • Once the casserole is out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added color and flavor before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
• Total Time: 50-60 minutes

Variations

• Meatball Variations: You can make the meatballs with ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of beef  for different flavors. For a leaner option, ground turkey is a great choice.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! You can add ricotta for a creamy texture or switch out the mozzarella for provolone for a different flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian twist, try using plant-based meatballs or make your own with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty, meat-free alternative.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and store them in the fridge for up to a day before frying them. Alternatively, you can freeze uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months and cook them when ready to use.

Can I use spaghetti sauce instead of marinara sauce?

Yes, spaghetti sauce will work just fine, though marinara sauce tends to have a fresher, more vibrant flavor. You can also use homemade tomato sauce if you prefer.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the casserole for added texture and flavor. Just sauté them before adding to the dish.

Is there a way to make this casserole healthier?

To make this casserole lighter, you can use whole wheat spaghetti, lean ground turkey instead of beef, and part-skim mozzarella cheese.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake it, just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes! This baked spaghetti and meatballs casserole freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes.

How do I keep the spaghetti from getting soggy?

Make sure to slightly undercook the spaghetti before adding it to the casserole. The noodles will absorb some of the sauce while baking, so this prevents them from becoming too soft.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the meatballs with vegetarian options like lentil meatballs, veggie meatballs, or tofu-based meatballs for a meatless version.

How can I add more flavor to the sauce?

You can add herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to the marinara sauce for extra flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick!

Conclusion

Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together all the best elements of Italian cuisine into one hearty, cheesy casserole. With flavorful homemade meatballs, tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, and plenty of melted cheese, this dish is guaranteed to please everyone at the table. It’s simple to make, perfect for meal prepping, and tastes even better as leftovers! Enjoy this classic dish for dinner tonight and savor every bite.

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