If you’re craving comfort food that feels like a warm hug, this Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe is your new best friend. It brings together juicy homemade meatballs, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a rich, bubbly layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, all baked to golden perfection. This dish hits all the right notes—tender, cheesy, savory, and absolutely satisfying. Once you make this recipe, it will quickly become a go-to for family dinners and hungry friends alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in the magic of the dish. From the hearty ground beef in the meatballs to the melty mozzarella on top, every component adds flavor, texture, and color for a well-rounded, irresistible casserole.
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef: The base for tender, flavorful meatballs that are juicy with every bite.
- 1/2 cup (50 g) breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs while keeping them light and moist.
- 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory depth to the meatballs with a salty bite.
- 1 large egg: Essential for binding the meatball mixture together perfectly.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives an aromatic punch that wakes up the whole dish.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Brings in warm, herby flavors reminiscent of classic Italian cooking.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle heat that balances out the richness.
- 2 tbsp olive oil, for frying: Used to sear the meatballs to a gorgeous golden crust.
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti: The perfect pasta to soak up marinara and cheese.
- 3 cups (700 ml) marinara sauce: A tangy, tomatoey base that ties everything together.
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that bubbly, cheesy topping.
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for extra flavor and a lovely golden finish.
- 1 tbsp olive oil, to prevent sticking: Keeps your cooked spaghetti from clumping up.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Adds an extra layer of garlic goodness on the baked sauce.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Enhances the casserole’s herbaceous aroma and taste.
- Fresh basil or parsley: Adds a fresh, bright garnish that lifts the whole dish.
How to Make Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
Start by combining ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix everything gently—overmixing can make the meatballs tough, so just combine until uniform. Then, roll the mixture into meatballs about 1 to 2 inches in diameter for the perfect balance of size and cooking time.
Step 2: Sear the Meatballs
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add your meatballs carefully and sear them on all sides until they develop a beautiful golden brown crust. This process takes roughly 8 minutes. Don’t worry about cooking them all the way through here, as they’ll finish baking later in the casserole.
Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti for 1 to 2 minutes less than the package instructions recommend—this al dente texture ensures the noodles won’t get mushy during baking. Once drained, toss the pasta with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking, keeping those strands perfectly separate.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you finish assembling your casserole. Having that oven hot and waiting streamlines the cooking process and helps everything bake evenly.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole for the Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
Begin by spreading 1 cup of marinara sauce over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish—it’s like laying down a flavorful foundation that prevents sticking and adds moisture. Layer half of the cooked spaghetti over that sauce, then nestle in your seared meatballs. Pour the remaining marinara evenly over the top, and sprinkle with garlic powder and Italian seasoning for an extra flavor boost. Finally, blanket everything with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese—the star topping that melts into bubbly, golden goodness.
Step 6: Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to start melting. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is perfectly melted, bubbly, and golden brown. This step creates that irresistible crust everyone loves.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes to firm up slightly, making it easier to serve without losing that cheesy topping. Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley for a bright, fresh pop of color and flavor. Then dig in and enjoy the wonderful comfort of this Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe.
How to Serve Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh basil leaves or parsley immediately brightens up this hearty dish. Not only do the herbs add vibrant color, but their freshness cuts through the richness, balancing each bite perfectly.
Side Dishes
Keep your sides light to let the casserole shine. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, garlic bread dripping with butter, or even roasted vegetables make for wonderful companions that complement the rich, cheesy main event.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the meatballs individually skewered on toothpicks over portions of baked spaghetti to turn this family classic into an easy appetizer or party dish. Alternatively, layer into individual ramekins for personal casseroles that look as charming as they taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days to keep flavors fresh and textures just right.
Freezing
This baked spaghetti and meatballs recipe freezes beautifully. For best results, freeze portions in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months. Freeze before baking to preserve freshness or after baking for the convenience of a ready meal.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. You can also microwave individual servings until warmed through, stirring halfway to heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work well, but be sure to add a little extra seasoning to keep the meatballs flavorful since these meats are leaner.
Do I have to sear the meatballs before baking?
Searing adds a beautiful crust and extra flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and bake the meatballs directly in the sauce—just expect a softer texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply switch the breadcrumbs and spaghetti for gluten-free versions, and ensure your marinara sauce doesn’t contain gluten ingredients.
How long can I keep leftovers in the fridge?
Leftovers are best eaten within 3 days to maintain freshness and food safety.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
You can try substituting the meatballs with plant-based meat alternatives or hearty vegetable balls made from mushrooms and beans for a delicious vegetarian version.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe is everything a comfort food lover could ask for. It’s straightforward to make, irresistibly cheesy, and loaded with satisfying homemade flavors. Whether feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this dish brings warmth, joy, and a little Italian flair to the dinner table. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!
Print
Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This classic Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe combines tender homemade meatballs with perfectly cooked spaghetti, marinara sauce, and a generous topping of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Baked to bubbling golden perfection, it’s a comforting and hearty meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1/2 cup (50 g) breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil, for frying
Spaghetti & Sauce
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti
- 3 cups (700 ml) marinara sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil, to prevent sticking
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Toppings
- 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently just until combined to avoid dense meatballs. Shape the mixture into 1-2 inch diameter meatballs.
- Sear the Meatballs: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until all sides are browned evenly, about 8 minutes. The meatballs will finish cooking during baking.
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook 1-2 minutes less than package instructions for al dente texture. Drain the pasta and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it is ready when you assemble the casserole.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the cooked spaghetti evenly over the sauce. Arrange seared meatballs on top of the spaghetti. Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the meatballs and pasta. Sprinkle with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Evenly top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes after baking. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty baked spaghetti and meatballs!
Notes
- Be careful not to overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
- Searing the meatballs before baking adds flavor and texture.
- Cooking spaghetti slightly underdone prevents it from becoming mushy during baking.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
