Description
This Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe combines tender homemade meatballs with perfectly cooked spaghetti and rich marinara sauce, all topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Baked to bubbly, golden perfection, this comforting casserole makes a hearty meal for family and friends in just under an hour.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 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
Topping
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined, then shape the mixture into 1-2 inch meatballs.
- Sear the Meatballs: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning regularly, until browned on all sides, about 8 minutes. The meatballs will finish cooking in the oven.
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook for 1-2 minutes less than the package directions for al dente texture. Drain the pasta and toss it with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to preheat while you assemble the casserole.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the cooked spaghetti over the sauce. Arrange the seared meatballs on top, then pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the meatballs and spaghetti. Sprinkle garlic powder and Italian seasoning over the sauce, then top everything with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- To make ahead, assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best flavor.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven for best results.
- For extra heat, add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce before layering.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
