Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs – Cheesy, Juicy & Perfect for Family Dinner!

Introduction

If you’re looking for a hearty meal that brings the whole family to the table, look no further than this Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs – Cheesy, Juicy & Perfect for Family Dinner! This dish combines tender pasta, flavorful meatballs, and gooey cheese, all baked to perfection. Each bite is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, from the cheesy goodness to the savory aroma wafting through your kitchen. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a memory in the making!

Recipe Overview

This Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs recipe has everything you need for an unforgettable family dinner. Here are the details:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 6

Ingredients

To make this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti pasta
• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
4. Form Meatballs: Roll the mixture into meatballs about the size of golf balls. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet.
5. Bake the Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, marinara sauce, and meatballs. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
7. Layer the Dish: Transfer the spaghetti and meatball mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake: Bake in the oven for an additional 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Don’t overcook the spaghetti; it will continue to cook while baking.
• Make your meatballs uniform in size for even cooking.
• Feel free to add some chopped vegetables like bell peppers and onions to the sauce for extra flavor.
• Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting texture and flavor.
• If you want a breadcrumb topping, mix some breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top before baking.

Variations and Substitutions

If you’re looking to switch things up, here are some ideas:

• For a healthier option, use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
• Replace ground beef with ground chicken or a plant-based meat substitute to cater to dietary preferences.
• Add a layer of spinach or kale for a boost of nutrients.
• Try different kinds of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone for a unique twist.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store leftovers, let the baked spaghetti cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, simply cover the dish with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can assemble the entire dish and store it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
• Can I freeze baked spaghetti and meatballs? Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Just cover it tightly and store up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
• What sides pair well with this dish? A fresh salad or garlic bread makes great sides for this spaghetti and meatballs meal.
• How do I know if the meatballs are cooked through? You can use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.

Nutritional Estimate

Each serving of this Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs contains approximately 450 calories, with 28 grams of protein, 50 grams of carbohydrates, and 18 grams of fat. It’s a filling and satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy!

Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs – Cheesy, Juicy & Perfect for Family Dinner!

Chloe

A hearty baked casserole featuring tender spaghetti, juicy meatballs, and gooey cheese. Savory and comforting, this dish is ideal for family gatherings and creates lasting memories with its cheesy aromas and satisfying layers.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 520 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 12 oz spaghetti pasta
• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C)
• Cook the pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside
• Combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl
• Roll the mixture into meatballs (golf ball size)
• Bake meatballs for 15 minutes or until cooked through
• Combine cooked spaghetti, marinara sauce, and meatballs in a bowl
• Layer mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and top with mozzarella cheese
• Bake for 25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden

Notes

Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the meatball mixture for extra nutrients
Use a toothpick to check meatballs are fully cooked
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free spaghetti and breadcrumbs