There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of baked spaghetti and meatballs wafting through your kitchen. This delightful dish blends hearty meatballs with tender pasta, coated in a rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella. Ready in about an hour, it’s a fantastic family meal that embodies the essence of Italian-American cuisine.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. Make a double batch and freeze the leftovers for an easy meal later—simply reheat and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The meatballs are juicy and flavorful, thanks to a perfect blend of spices and breadcrumbs.
- Baked to perfection, the cheese on top becomes beautifully bubbly and golden.
- Spaghetti absorbs the rich marinara, creating a comforting dish with every bite.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for gatherings or family dinners.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create this mouthwatering dish.
For the Pasta
- 12 oz spaghetti
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 large egg
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
For the Sauce
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
For Cooking
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Use lean ground beef for a lighter option.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Ground turkey can replace ground beef.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if necessary.
- Parmesan can be swapped for Pecorino Romano.
- Any favorite marinara sauce works well.
How to Make It
Start your journey to a delicious meal with these straightforward steps.
Preheat
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
This ensures an even bake.
Cook Spaghetti
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
Prepare Meatball Mixture
- Combine ingredients in a bowl.
In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. Form the mixture into meatballs.
Brown Meatballs
- Brown the meatballs in a skillet.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and add the meatballs, cooking until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
Assemble Dish
- Assemble the dish in a baking dish.
Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish, then layer the spaghetti on top, add the browned meatballs, and cover everything with the remaining marinara sauce.
Top with Cheese
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
Evenly distribute the shredded cheese over the dish for a cheesy finish.
Bake
- Bake the dish in the oven.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Allow to cool slightly before serving to enhance flavors.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Microwave on medium for about 4-6 minutes until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure meatballs are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Don’t skip browning the meatballs for added flavor.
- Use a variety of cheeses for a unique twist.
- Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- Serve with garlic bread for extra indulgence.
- Ideal for potlucks or family movie nights.
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