Name: Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork); ½ cup (50 g) breadcrumbs; ¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil for frying; 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti; 3 cups (700 ml) marinara sauce; 2 cups (200 g) shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp olive oil to prevent sticking; ½ tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Fresh basil or parsley

Jump to Recipe

If you are craving a comforting, hearty meal that brings together the best of Italian flavors in one cozy dish, then you absolutely need to try this Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe. It’s the perfect union of tender spaghetti noodles, juicy homemade meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and bubbling, golden cheese baked to perfection. This dish is like a warm hug on a plate that’s sure to become a favorite for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Trust me, once you taste this classic comfort food with a baked twist, you’ll be ready to make it again and again!

Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs comes from a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that work together beautifully to create an explosion of flavors and textures. Each component plays a key role, from the savory meatballs to the creamy, melted cheese topping. Let’s break down what you’ll need.

Ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork): Provides juicy, flavorful meatballs with the perfect texture.
Breadcrumbs: Help bind the meatballs while keeping them tender and light.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty flavor to both meatballs and topping.
Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together.
Minced garlic: Infuses deep, aromatic notes into the meatballs.
Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that gives the dish its classic Italian flair.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
Olive oil: Used for searing the meatballs and preventing pasta from sticking.
Spaghetti: The hearty base that holds all the flavors together perfectly.
Marinara sauce: A rich, tomatoey sauce that brings moisture and tang.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for a gooey, stretchy topping.

How to Make Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs

Step 1: Preparing the Meatballs

Start by combining the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until just combined—overworking can make meatballs tough. Then, roll the mixture into evenly sized 1 to 2-inch meatballs. These will cook beautifully and stay juicy.

Step 2: Searing the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and carefully add the meatballs. Sear them on all sides until they develop a lovely golden-brown crust, about 8 minutes total. This step locks in the moisture and adds incredible flavor, though they won’t be fully cooked yet, which is perfect since they’ll finish baking in the oven.

Step 3: Cooking the Spaghetti

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti just shy of al dente—this means 1 or 2 minutes less than package directions to avoid overcooking when baked later. Drain and toss with olive oil to keep the strands from sticking together and clumping up.

Step 4: Preheating the Oven

Set your oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready to bake your casserole once assembled. This guarantees even, bubbling goodness.

Step 5: Assembling the Casserole

Spread a cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9 by 13-inch baking dish to keep the pasta moist. Layer half the spaghetti on top, then nestle the seared meatballs right onto the noodles. Pour the remaining marinara sauce generously over everything. To elevate the flavors, sprinkle garlic powder and Italian seasoning evenly over the top. Finally, cover with shredded mozzarella cheese and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan for that irresistible golden crust.

Step 6: Baking to Perfection

Cover the casserole with foil to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly and bake for 15 minutes. After that, remove the foil to let the cheese get beautifully bubbly and golden, baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and you’ll know it’s ready when the cheese has melted and crisped up just right.

Step 7: Garnishing and Serving

Allow the casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set slightly and makes serving easier. Add a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and a burst of fresh herbal brightness. Now dig in and prepare for rave reviews.

How to Serve Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like basil or flat-leaf parsley add not only vibrant color but also a lovely fresh note that balances the richness of the dish. A little extra grated Parmesan on top can also add a sharp, salty finish just before serving.

Side Dishes

This rich casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with tangy vinaigrette to cut through the cheesiness. Garlic bread or a crunchy baguette also makes perfect companions, perfect for soaking up extra marinara sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions of this Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs in mini cast iron skillets or oven-safe ramekins. This not only looks adorable but keeps the cheese bubbly and warm for longer at the table. You could also top with a drizzle of good-quality balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats well and makes for a great next-day meal or lunch.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. Freeze it in a suitable container either before baking or after it has cooled completely post-baking. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to keep the moisture for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave with a damp paper towel covering the dish for a quicker option, stirring halfway for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for the meatballs?

Yes, ground turkey can be a lighter alternative, but it’s best to add a bit of olive oil or moisture such as grated onion to keep the meatballs tender and flavorful since turkey can be leaner.

Do I need to cook the meatballs fully before baking?

Not completely. Searing the meatballs seals in flavor and helps them hold shape, but they finish cooking in the oven ensuring they remain juicy without drying out.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste or texture.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or sprinkle some on top before baking for a bit of heat. You can also use a spicy marinara sauce instead of a mild one.

Is it better to use fresh or dried herbs?

Dried Italian seasoning works wonderfully in both the meatballs and the sauce, but fresh herbs like basil or parsley make fantastic garnishes that add brightness and fresh flavor just before serving.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the warm, cheesy comfort of a well-made Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs dish. It’s approachable, crowd-pleasing, and downright delicious every time. If you’re looking for a new weeknight favorite or a way to impress at your next family dinner, this recipe will not disappoint. So roll up your sleeves, gather those simple ingredients, and get ready to savor a meal filled with love and irresistible flavor!