Classic Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs: A Cheesy Family Favorite

Classic Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs: A Cheesy Family Favorite

Transform your weeknight dinners with this Classic Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe. This one-pan wonder is loaded with saucy spaghetti, tender meatballs, and a cheesy, golden topping that’s guaranteed to bring smiles to the table. Perfect for cozy family dinners, meal preps, or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Let’s get cooking!


Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Spaghetti:

  • 12 oz spaghetti
  • 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup water or chicken broth
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried basil

For the Cheesy Topping:

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)


Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
  3. Roll into 1-inch meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.

2. Cook the Spaghetti

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Combine the Sauce and Spaghetti

  1. In a large skillet, heat the marinara sauce, water or chicken broth, garlic powder, and dried basil over medium heat. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  2. Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss until fully coated.

4. Assemble the Dish

  1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the sauced spaghetti evenly across the bottom.
  2. Layer the baked meatballs on top of the spaghetti.
  3. Cover the meatballs with the remaining spaghetti and sauce.
  4. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.

5. Bake the Casserole

  1. Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  2. For an extra golden crust, broil for 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

6. Garnish and Serve

  1. Let the baked spaghetti rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy and Delicious: A no-fuss recipe that delivers incredible flavor and cheesy goodness.
  • Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even leftovers.
  • Customizable: Swap out meatballs for sausage or add your favorite vegetables for extra nutrition.

Pro Tips for Success

  1. Double the Recipe: Make extra meatballs to freeze for future meals.
  2. Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better and adds more flavor than pre-shredded varieties.
  3. Add Veggies: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a nutrient boost.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

2. Can I use store-bought meatballs?
Absolutely! Pre-cooked frozen meatballs are a convenient option and work perfectly in this recipe.

3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.


Serving Suggestions

Pair this Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs with:

  • Garlic Knots: Perfect for dipping into the cheesy, saucy goodness.
  • Crisp Salad: A simple Caesar or garden salad adds a refreshing balance.
  • Steamed Veggies: Broccoli, carrots, or asparagus make excellent side dishes.

Conclusion

This Classic Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs is a go-to recipe for comforting, family-friendly meals. With its layers of saucy spaghetti, flavorful meatballs, and melted cheese, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is always a hit. Try it today and enjoy the cheesy, hearty goodness!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *