Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Jar Sauce

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor, look no further than Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Jar Sauce. This recipe is a perfect combination of hearty spaghetti, tender homemade meatballs, and rich marinara sauce, all baked together until golden and bubbling with cheesy goodness. The best part? It simplifies the process by using jarred sauce, cutting down on prep time while still delivering that comforting, homemade taste we all crave.

Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent looking for a family-friendly meal, or simply a lover of Italian comfort food, Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Jar Sauce is the ultimate go-to dish. With its easy to follow steps, this recipe delivers a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week.

In this post, I’ll guide you through how to make this simple yet flavorful dish, share some helpful tips, and even offer a few variations to suit your preferences. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this baked spaghetti and meatballs recipe will quickly become one of your favorites.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Jar Sauce is the perfect dish for busy evenings, laid-back weekends, or even when you’re just craving something comforting and filling. It’s an easy, one-dish meal that combines hearty spaghetti, tender meatballs, and rich marinara sauce, all baked together until bubbly and golden. The jar sauce simplifies the process and cuts down on cooking time, without sacrificing any of the flavor you love.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can easily swap ingredients to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand in your pantry. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a potluck, it’s guaranteed to be a hit!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we get started with the recipe, here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need. Don’t worry, nothing too fancy here! Just simple, everyday ingredients that come together to make a hearty and satisfying meal.

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, if preferred)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup milk

For the Spaghetti:

• 8 oz spaghetti (or any pasta you prefer)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (your favorite jarred brand)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this recipe, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools. Here’s a list to ensure you’re prepared:

• Large pot (for cooking the spaghetti)
• Baking dish (9×13-inch size works well)
• Mixing bowl (for the meatball mixture)
• Baking sheet (to bake the meatballs)
• Wooden spoon or spatula (for stirring)
• Cheese grater (if you’re grating your own Parmesan)
• Garlic press (optional, for mincing garlic)

How to Make Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Jar Sauce

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients and equipment, it’s time to dive into the recipe. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this incredibly easy yet satisfying dish.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for your spaghetti and meatballs to bake. This is the perfect temperature to get that golden cheese crust on top.

Step 2: Make the Meatballs

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, pepper, and milk. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined.

Once your meatball mixture is ready, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re fully cooked through and golden on the outside. No need to worry about perfect meatballs – they’ll be smothered in sauce, so don’t stress about shape!

Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti

While the meatballs are baking, cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once it’s al dente, drain it and set it aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Once the meatballs are done, it’s time to assemble your baked spaghetti. In your baking dish, layer the cooked spaghetti, followed by the marinara sauce, and the meatballs. Pour enough sauce to cover the pasta and meatballs, and stir gently to combine everything.

Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Step 5: Bake and Enjoy

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. The sauce should be hot, and the meatballs will absorb some of that delicious flavor.

Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to settle and makes it easier to slice and serve.

Tips, Shortcuts, and Variations

This Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Jar Sauce recipe is not only delicious, but it’s also flexible and customizable to fit your taste and schedule. Here are some handy tips, shortcuts, and variations to help you make this dish your own and tailor it to your needs.

Meatballs:

If you’re short on time, using store-bought meatballs is an excellent shortcut that doesn’t compromise flavor. Just bake them according to the package instructions before adding them to the spaghetti and sauce. However, if you prefer homemade meatballs, it’s simple to make them yourself with ground beef, turkey, or even a combination of the two. For a lighter, vegetarian option, try making meatballs using lentils or plant-based meat alternatives, which are just as satisfying but lower in fat. They’ll also add a unique twist to your dish!

Sauce:

While jarred marinara sauce is super convenient and provides a flavorful base for this dish, you can easily make your own sauce if you have more time and want to customize the flavor. To create a simple homemade marinara, simmer crushed tomatoes with garlic, onions, olive oil, fresh basil, and a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity. You can adjust the seasoning to your liking, adding red pepper flakes for a little heat or extra herbs for depth. Making your own sauce allows you to control the ingredients and create a truly unique flavor profile.

Cheese:

Mozzarella cheese is the classic choice for this recipe, giving you that melt-in-your-mouth texture and creamy flavor. However, feel free to get creative with your cheese choices! Mixing in some provolone or fontina cheese will add a delightful sharpness, while cheddar provides a rich, tangy taste that pairs perfectly with the savory meatballs and sauce. You can even try adding a little ricotta for extra creaminess. The cheese blend is completely up to you, experiment to find your favorite combination!

Pasta:

While spaghetti is the traditional choice for this dish, you can easily switch it up based on what you have in your pantry or your personal preferences. Penne, rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli all work wonderfully with this baked dish. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente before assembling it with the sauce and meatballs so it doesn’t overcook in the oven. Using a different pasta shape can also make this dish feel fresh and exciting, and it’s a fun way to incorporate variety into your meals.

Make It Ahead:

One of the best things about Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Jar Sauce is that it’s perfect for meal prep. You can assemble the entire dish ahead of time, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. This makes it a great option for busy evenings when you don’t have time to cook from scratch. If you’re hosting a party or preparing for a potluck, you can prepare it the day before and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve. Leftovers can also be stored in the fridge for several days, making it ideal for reheating and enjoying throughout the week.

By incorporating these tips and variations into your recipe, you can create a dish that’s uniquely yours and that fits your schedule and preferences. Whether you opt for store-bought ingredients or go the extra mile with homemade sauce and meatballs, this Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Jar Sauce will never disappoint!

How to Store Leftovers

Baked spaghetti and meatballs with jar sauce are even better the next day! If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat it in the microwave or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, until heated through.

Food Pairings

Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Jar Sauce pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad and some garlic bread for the ultimate Italian-inspired meal.

FAQs: Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Jar Sauce

Conclusion: Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Jar Sauce

Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Jar Sauce is truly the perfect dish for anyone who loves comforting, easy-to-make meals that are both flavorful and filling. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – you get the rich flavors of homemade meatballs, gooey melted cheese, and a hearty tomato sauce, all baked together for a dish that feels like a labor of love, but with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a cozy weeknight meal, or prepping for a weekend gathering, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Not only is Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Jar Sauce delicious, but it’s also incredibly adaptable. You can make it your own by swapping ingredients to suit dietary preferences or by adding a personal touch with different pasta shapes, cheese blends, or even homemade marinara. And with its ability to be prepared ahead of time, it’s a practical and convenient option for those busy days when you still want to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

If you’re looking for more hearty, comforting recipes to try, you won’t want to miss out on some of my other favorite dishes. For a rich and creamy meal, check out my Steak Alfredo Recipe, where tender steak and a velvety Alfredo sauce come together for a truly indulgent experience. Or if you’re in the mood for something soup based, my Chicken Alfredo Soup with Beef and Parmesan Cheese and Alfredo Chicken Noodle Soup are perfect for cozy nights. These dishes are just as easy to make and full of flavor, giving you even more delicious meal options for your weekly menu.

So, next time you’re craving a classic Italian comfort dish, remember Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with Jar Sauce. It’s a quick, satisfying meal that’s guaranteed to hit the spot. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and get a look to our blog for more delicious, easy to follow recipes like this one. Happy cooking!