Easy Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe for Family Dinners

When it comes to classic comfort food, baked spaghetti and meatballs is one dish that never disappoints. This warm, cheesy, and hearty meal combines the best of both worlds: the rich flavors of spaghetti and the savory taste of meatballs, all baked together in one delicious dish. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or preparing a dish for family gatherings, this recipe is both satisfying and easy to customize.

In this article, we’ll walk through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips for customization, and FAQs, so you can make the perfect baked spaghetti and meatballs. And while you’re at it, check out these other comfort food classics like slow cooker beef tips and noodles to round out your recipe collection!

Why Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs?

Baked spaghetti and meatballs takes a classic pasta dish and elevates it by baking everything together with melted cheese. This process enhances the flavors, melding the sauce, meatballs, and spaghetti into a deliciously cheesy casserole that will have everyone coming back for seconds. It’s a great dish to prepare ahead of time, and it can even be frozen for later use.

For more ideas on how to create memorable meals, you might want to explore other comfort classics like this ultimate guide to butterscotch pie, which makes for a sweet dessert option to follow this savory main course.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this comforting dish:

• 1 ½ dozen meatballs (homemade or store-bought, pre-cooked)
• 24 oz jar of marinara sauce (homemade or your favorite store-bought)
• 1/2 yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3/4 lb spaghetti noodles
• 1-2 cups grated cheese (a mix of mozzarella and Colby-Jack works well)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup pasta cooking water (reserved from boiling the spaghetti)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

If you’re using store-bought meatballs, make sure they’re pre-cooked and ready to go. For a more homemade touch, you can easily prepare meatballs from scratch using the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients together, form into small balls, and bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes until golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinara Sauce

For the sauce, you can either use a pre-made marinara or whip up your own using this simple recipe:

• Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add 1/2 diced yellow onion and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
• Add 3 cloves of crushed garlic and cook for 1 minute.
• Stir in 24 oz marinara sauce and 1 tsp Italian seasoning.
• Simmer the sauce on low heat for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti

While your sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 3/4 lb of spaghetti noodles according to the package directions, making sure to undercook them by 2 minutes. This is important because the pasta will finish cooking in the oven. Once the pasta is done, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water and drain the rest.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

Now it’s time to put everything together!

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Add the cooked spaghetti to the marinara sauce, tossing to coat the noodles. Use the reserved pasta water to help bind the sauce and noodles.
3. Transfer the spaghetti and sauce mixture to a large baking dish.
4. Arrange the meatballs on top of the spaghetti.
5. Sprinkle 1-2 cups of grated cheese (mozzarella and Colby-Jack) evenly over the top.
6. Finish by adding 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Dish

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top. Allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Customization Options

One of the great things about baked spaghetti and meatballs is that it’s easy to customize. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meatballs with plant-based alternatives or make meatballs using lentils, chickpeas, or mushrooms.
• Different Cheeses: Try using other types of cheese such as sharp cheddar, gouda, or fontina for a more complex flavor profile.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

Tips for Success

• Undercook the Pasta: Remember to undercook your pasta by a couple of minutes, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Don’t Skimp on the Cheese: The key to a perfect baked spaghetti dish is the cheese. Use a combination of mozzarella, Parmesan, and Colby-Jack for the best results.
• Let It Rest: After baking, let the dish sit for about 10 minutes. This will allow the sauce to thicken and make it easier to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I prepare baked spaghetti and meatballs in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake it, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if the dish is cold from the fridge.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Can I freeze baked spaghetti and meatballs?

Yes, this dish freezes well! To freeze, assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the regular spaghetti for gluten-free pasta, and make sure your other ingredients, like marinara sauce, are gluten-free.

What can I substitute for meatballs in a vegetarian version?

You can use plant-based meatballs or make homemade vegetarian meatballs with ingredients like lentils, chickpeas, or mushrooms.

Conclusion

Baked spaghetti and meatballs is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd. Its combination of tender spaghetti, savory meatballs, and rich marinara sauce, all baked under a layer of gooey cheese, makes it a crowd-pleaser. Customize it to fit your family’s tastes, and you’ll have a go-to meal that never fails to satisfy.

For more delicious comfort food recipes, try exploring other dishes like this baked cream cheese spaghetti from Recipes Billie, or try a dessert pairing like their butterscotch pie recipe.

This dish is easy to prepare, freezer-friendly, and incredibly versatile—making it the perfect addition to your weeknight meal rotation!

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