Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the heartwarming appeal of Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs. This delicious dish combines the rich flavors of tender meatballs, savory marinara sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, all topped with a golden, bubbly layer of melted cheese. If you’re looking for a meal that will satisfy even the hungriest appetites and leave everyone asking for seconds, Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs is your go-to recipe.

What makes this dish even better is its versatility, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even a casual dinner party. The beauty of this baked version lies in the ease of preparation, as it can be assembled ahead of time and then simply baked when you’re ready to serve. Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining guests, Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs delivers that perfect balance of flavors and textures everyone loves.

In this post, we’ll guide you step by step through how to make this irresistible dish and share some tips and tricks to elevate your cooking game. Let’s dive into this classic favorite that never goes out of style.

Who This Recipe Is For

This recipe is for anyone who loves comforting, filling meals that require minimal effort but deliver maximum flavor. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you need something that can be prepared in advance and popped in the oven, as well as for casual dinner parties where you want to serve a dish that feels special without breaking a sweat. If you’re a fan of Italian-American cuisine, this dish will quickly become a go-to favorite in your household.

This recipe is also great for families, as it makes a large portion, perfect for feeding a group of hungry mouths. And, of course, if you’re someone who enjoys cooking but also wants to keep things simple, this baked spaghetti and meatballs dish is a winner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s go over the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious dish. As with any great recipe, fresh ingredients are key to ensuring maximum flavor. Here’s what you’ll need for your Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs:

Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of ground beef and pork)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Spaghetti:

• 1 lb spaghetti pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt for pasta water

Tomato Sauce:

• 1 jar marinara sauce (or homemade if you prefer)
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Baking:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Step by Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs

To make the meatballs, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well incorporated. Roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and slightly golden brown on the outside.

2. Cook the Spaghetti

While the meatballs are baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a little pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later. Toss the pasta with olive oil to prevent sticking and set aside.

3. Prepare the Tomato Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Add the marinara sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Once the meatballs are done, carefully add them to the sauce and let them cook together for another 5 minutes.

4. Assemble the Dish

In a large baking dish, combine the cooked spaghetti and meatballs in the sauce. Stir to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top, covering the entire surface.

5. Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. If you like your cheese extra crispy, you can broil it for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once your Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, make sure you have these kitchen tools on hand:

• Baking sheet
• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet for simmering sauce
• Large mixing bowl for meatball mixture
• Baking dish for assembling the spaghetti and meatballs
• Parchment paper (optional for lining the baking sheet)
• Grater for Parmesan and mozzarella cheese

Tips for the Perfect Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs

Here are some helpful tips and variations to ensure that your Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs turns out perfectly every time:

1. Meatball Variations

While ground beef is the classic choice for meatballs, there are plenty of ways to customize them based on your dietary preferences or taste. For a leaner option, try using ground turkey or chicken. These will yield slightly lighter meatballs while still being delicious. If you’re after more flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or even parsley. Fresh herbs will bring an aromatic kick that complements the tomato sauce beautifully. For a spicier twist, you could mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or even finely chopped jalapeños for a little heat.

2. Homemade Marinara Sauce Tips

Although store-bought marinara sauce is a convenient option, making your own sauce can take this dish to the next level. A simple homemade marinara can be created by blending canned tomatoes with garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs like basil and oregano. Add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, and let it simmer for 20 minutes to meld the flavors. This sauce will give you a rich, deep flavor that’s far superior to most pre-made sauces. You can also experiment by adding a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar for added depth and complexity.

3. Make-Ahead and Meal Prep

Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs is a great dish for meal prepping. You can prepare the meatballs and sauce a day in advance, store them in separate airtight containers in the fridge, and assemble everything right before baking. This is a huge time-saver, especially on busy days when you need to get dinner on the table fast. Additionally, you can freeze the meatballs and sauce for longer storage. Just make sure to let the sauce and meatballs cool before storing them in freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw everything overnight and bake it as you would with fresh ingredients.

4. Cheese Variations

Cheese is a crucial part of Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs, and there are many ways to play with different cheeses to create unique flavors and textures. While mozzarella is the traditional choice for its meltiness, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Ricotta can be added for a creamy, rich texture that complements the pasta beautifully. Provolone cheese will give a sharp, smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the marinara sauce. If you want to add even more complexity, try mixing in some grated Parmesan for an extra layer of salty, nutty goodness.

By adjusting these components to your liking, you can make your Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs truly your own!

How to Store Leftovers

Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs makes excellent leftovers! If you have any leftovers, let the dish cool to room temperature and then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions if you prefer.

Food Pairings

Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs is a hearty dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a great way to balance out the richness of the pasta and meatballs. For something more indulgent, serve it with garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables. As for drinks, a glass of red wine like Chianti or a crisp iced tea would complement the flavors beautifully.

FAQs: Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs

Conclusion: Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs

Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs is the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich, savory flavors of tender meatballs, marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese over perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple to prepare, making it the perfect meal for everything from family dinners to casual dinner parties. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or to impress your guests, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

With the tips and variations shared in this post, you can personalize your Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Try experimenting with different meat options, cheese combinations, and homemade marinara sauce for a dish that’s uniquely yours. Don’t forget, this recipe is also great for meal prepping and freezing, making it even more convenient to enjoy whenever you crave a hearty, comforting meal.

If you loved this recipe, why not check out some of our other comforting dishes? Our Steak Alfredo Recipe offers a creamy, rich sauce paired with juicy steak that’s perfect for a special dinner. Or, for something a little different but just as indulgent, try our Chicken Alfredo Soup with Beef and Parmesan Cheese a warm and hearty soup with all the creamy goodness of alfredo. For an easy-to-make yet flavorful meal, don’t miss our Alfredo Chicken Noodle Soup, which is packed with comforting flavors everyone will love.

Now it’s time to get cooking! Be sure to share this Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes that will take your cooking to the next level. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite of this classic comfort dish!