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Easy Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe for Family Dinners

Baked spaghetti and meatballs is a classic comfort food that combines spaghetti, marinara sauce, meatballs, and plenty of melted cheese. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The recipe is simple, customizable, and freezer-friendly, making it an easy go-to meal for any occasion.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

For the dish:

  • 1 ½ dozen meatballs (homemade or store-bought, pre-cooked)
  • 24 oz jar of marinara sauce (homemade or 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 (mozzarella and Colby-Jack)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)

For homemade meatballs (optional):

  • 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

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

  • For store-bought meatballs: Ensure they are pre-cooked and ready to go.
  • For homemade meatballs:
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Combine ground meat, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Form the mixture into small meatballs and bake on a lined baking sheet for 20 minutes, until golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinara Sauce

  1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Sauté diced onion for 5 minutes until softened.
  3. Add crushed garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Stir in marinara sauce and Italian seasoning.
  5. Simmer on low heat for 20 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the spaghetti noodles 2 minutes less than package instructions (as they will finish cooking in the oven).
  3. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Toss the cooked spaghetti with the marinara sauce, using reserved pasta water to bind.
  3. Transfer the mixture to a large baking dish.
  4. Place meatballs on top.
  5. Sprinkle grated mozzarella, Colby-Jack, and Parmesan cheese over the top.

Step 5: Bake the Dish

  1. Bake for 20-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  2. Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Customize the dish by using different cheeses or adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms.
  • Undercook the pasta slightly before baking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
  • Letting the dish rest after baking helps the sauce thicken and the flavors to meld.
  • Author: Billie
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6 of the dish
  • Calories: ~450-550 kcal
  • Sugar: ~5-7g
  • Sodium: ~700-900mg
  • Fat: ~25-30g
  • Saturated Fat: ~10-12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: ~10-15g
  • Trans Fat: Minimal
  • Carbohydrates: ~40-50g
  • Fiber: ~3-5g
  • Protein: ~25-30g
  • Cholesterol: ~70-90mg

Keywords: Baked spaghetti, meatballs, baked pasta, family dinner, comfort food, easy spaghetti recipe