If you have been searching for a comforting meal that brings together hearty flavors and gooey cheese in a glorious casserole, this Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe is a must-try. It combines tender meatballs infused with Italian herbs, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and rich marinara sauce, all topped with a golden layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. What makes this dish truly special is how it bakes everything together, allowing the flavors to meld and the cheese to develop that irresistible bubbly crust. This recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also wonderfully simple to prepare, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe uses straightforward ingredients that each play a vital role in creating a balanced and delicious dish. From the savory ground beef to the aromatic Italian seasoning, every component adds flavor, texture, or color that elevates the meal.
- 1 lb ground beef: The main protein that forms juicy, flavorful meatballs packed with hearty taste.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs while keeping them tender and light.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that deepens the meatballs’ complexity.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to keep the meat mixture together during cooking.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Injects a burst of fragrant aroma and a touch of zest.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives a true Italian flair to the recipe.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the overall flavors of all ingredients.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a mild kick to balance the savory flavors.
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying): Used to sear the meatballs to a lovely golden brown.
- 12 oz spaghetti: The pasta base that holds all the tasty components together.
- 3 cups marinara sauce: A rich tomato sauce that infuses the dish with moisture and tang.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to provide that irresistible cheesy top layer.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping): Sprinkled on top to add sharpness and a golden finish.
- 1 tbsp olive oil (to prevent sticking): Keeps the spaghetti from clumping after cooking.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Elevates the flavor profile in the assembled casserole.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Adds an extra herbal touch when sprinkled before baking.
- Fresh basil or parsley: Provides a bright, fresh garnish to finish the dish with color and aroma.
How to Make Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
Start by combining the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly ensures every bite is flavorful and holds together beautifully. Roll the mixture into 1 to 2-inch meatballs, aiming for even sizes so they cook uniformly.
Step 2: Sear the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and carefully place the meatballs in the pan. Sear them on all sides for about 8 minutes until they’re beautifully browned. Don’t worry if they’re not fully cooked through yet because they’ll finish cooking during baking, which allows them to stay tender and juicy inside.
Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti for 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions indicate to achieve perfect al dente texture. Drain the pasta and immediately toss it with a tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking and add a slight richness that complements the meatballs.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the assembled dish. This temperature is ideal for melting the cheese while gently cooking any remaining uncooked parts of the meatballs.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Begin by spreading one cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Next, layer half of the cooked spaghetti, distributing it evenly. Arrange the seared meatballs on top, then pour the remaining marinara sauce over everything. Sprinkle garlic powder and Italian seasoning across the top for an herbal aroma and added flavor. Finally, scatter shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese generously over the surface.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and has a gorgeous golden brown color. This step creates the signature bubbling cheese crust we all adore in this Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe.
Step 7: Garnish and Enjoy
Allow the casserole to cool slightly for about 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh basil or parsley. This rest period helps everything set, making serving easier and allowing the flavors to settle just right. Serve warm and get ready to enjoy a delectable, cheesy, meaty feast.
How to Serve Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley are a perfect finishing touch for this dish. They add vibrant color and a refreshing flavor contrast to the rich, cheesy meatballs and pasta. You could also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes if you want a bit of a spicy kick.
Side Dishes
This baked spaghetti and meatballs recipe pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A simple Caesar salad or sautéed spinach can provide a fresh balance to the richness of the casserole, creating a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual portions of this baked dish in small ramekins or cast-iron skillets. This presentation not only looks elegant but also keeps the cheese melted longer at the table. You can also turn leftovers into a hearty pasta bake lunch by reheating and topping with a fresh handful of herbs or extra cheese.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your meal, allow the baked spaghetti and meatballs to cool completely. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, the meal stays fresh and ready to enjoy again with minimal prep.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating thoroughly.
Reheating
To bring the baked spaghetti and meatballs back to life, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly. If short on time, the microwave works too—just make sure to cover the dish to prevent it drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat for the meatballs?
Absolutely! While ground beef is classic, you can substitute or mix in ground pork, turkey, or even chicken to suit your preferences. Just keep an eye on cooking times as leaner meats may cook faster.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure your marinara sauce and seasonings don’t contain hidden gluten.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time before baking?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Just cover it tightly and add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.
What can I substitute for the mozzarella if I want a different cheese?
Cheeses like provolone, fontina, or even a mild cheddar can work well if you want to experiment with flavors. Each will provide a different texture and taste, so feel free to customize.
How do I prevent the spaghetti from getting mushy during baking?
Cooking the spaghetti just a bit under al dente and tossing it with olive oil before assembling helps keep the noodles firm. Also, avoid over-baking the casserole to maintain perfect texture.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe is a wonderful way to share a hearty, comforting meal with family and friends. Its simple ingredients transform into a delicious, cozy dinner that never fails to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving some classic Italian flavors, give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite comfort food.
Print
Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe combines tender, juicy meatballs with perfectly cooked spaghetti baked in a rich marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s a comforting and hearty Italian-American classic that’s perfect for family dinners and easy to prepare ahead.
Ingredients
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
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
Spaghetti and Sauce
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
- 3 cups (700 ml) marinara sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil (to prevent sticking)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Cheese Topping
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until fully incorporated.
- Shape Meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1-2 inch meatballs, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking.
- Sear Meatballs: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and sear on all sides until browned, about 8 minutes. They don’t need to be fully cooked now as they’ll finish baking in the oven.
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti for 1-2 minutes less than package instructions to achieve al dente. Drain and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread 1 cup marinara sauce evenly in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the cooked spaghetti over the sauce. Arrange the seared meatballs on top. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the meatballs and spaghetti. Sprinkle garlic powder and Italian seasoning evenly over the sauce, then top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes to heat through and melt the cheese.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty baked spaghetti and meatballs!
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with a mix of beef and pork for richer flavor.
- For extra flavor, add finely chopped onions to the meatball mixture.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for better texture and taste.
- To make ahead: assemble as directed, then refrigerate before baking. Bake just before serving.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.
