Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs
Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs is a classic comfort food that combines the beloved flavors of spaghetti and meatballs with the convenience of a casserole. This dish offers a delightful mix of tender pasta, savory meatballs, and rich marinara sauce, topped with gooey mozzarella cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe is easy to make and promises to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to try this Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe. First and foremost, it captures the deliciousness of traditional spaghetti and meatballs while being baked to perfection. The combination of textures—from the soft spaghetti to the crispy cheese topping—creates a harmony of flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Additionally, this dish is an excellent way to feed a crowd, making it an ideal choice for parties or potlucks. The leftovers are just as good, making it a fantastic meal prep option for busy weeks.
How to Make Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs
Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs:
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown meatballs on all sides.
- In a casserole dish, mix cooked spaghetti and marinara sauce. Place meatballs on top, then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve warm.
How to Serve Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs
Serve your Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs warm, directly from the oven. For an appealing presentation, you can garnish with fresh parsley or extra grated Parmesan cheese. Pair this dish with a side salad and garlic bread to create a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
How to Store Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs
To store leftovers, let the Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs
- Choosing Your Meat: You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version of the meatballs.
- Herb Freshness: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor; consider adding fresh basil or oregano for an aromatic touch.
- Cheese Variation: Feel free to mix cheeses; combining mozzarella with provolone or cheddar can add a unique twist.
- Add Veggies: To boost the nutrition, you can incorporate sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms into the spaghetti mix.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute meatballs with veggie meatballs or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version of this dish.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free and inclusive for all dietary preferences.
- Spicy Touch: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a spicy kick.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the spaghetti and meatballs and assemble them in the casserole dish, then store it in the refrigerator and bake it when ready to serve.
2. How can I make the meatballs more flavorful?
Consider adding chopped onions, fresh herbs, or spices like paprika and chili powder to kick up the flavor profile of the meatballs.
3. What can I serve with Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs?
This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Try this Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe for a hearty, satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table! Enjoy every comforting bite!
Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- to taste salt and pepper
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Can mix with provolone or cheddar for a unique twist.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown meatballs on all sides.
Assembly and Baking
- In a casserole dish, mix cooked spaghetti and marinara sauce.
- Place meatballs on top, then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serving
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or extra grated Parmesan cheese, alongside a side salad and garlic bread.
