The Comforting Whiff of Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs

Imagine a warm, cheesy dish bubbling in the oven, sending delicious aromas wafting through your home. That’s the magic of Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a hug on a plate! With layers of tender spaghetti, savory meatballs, and melty cheese, it’s hard not to sneak bites along the way. Plus, it’s totally easy to whip up, making it a go-to weeknight dinner.

Why Make This Recipe

Who doesn’t love a dish that practically makes itself? This Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs does just that!

Easy cleanup: It all comes together in one pan. Less time washing dishes equals more time for Netflix – win-win!
Budget-friendly: A hearty meal that won’t break the bank. Your wallet will thank you!
Family-approved: Kids and adults alike devour this classic. Expect clean plates and happy faces around your table.

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics! Grab:

Spaghetti
Ground beef or turkey
Breadcrumbs
Parmesan cheese
Egg
Garlic
Onion
Marinara sauce
Mozzarella cheese
Olive oil
Salt
Pepper
Italian seasoning

Directions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a bowl, mix the ground meat with breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Form into meatballs.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides.
In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce. Add the cooked spaghetti and meatballs on top. Pour remaining marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
Bake in the oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let it cool slightly before serving.

How to Make Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs (Overview)

This dish comes together like a dream. First, you’ll cook the spaghetti and craft the meatballs—don’t worry, they’re super forgiving! While they’re browning in the skillet, you’ll layer the spaghetti and sauce in a baking dish, placing the meatballs on top like little flavorful islands. Sprinkle cheese, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen. Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference!

How to Serve Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs

Serving this dish is all about that cozy presentation! Picture this: a vibrant plate filled with deep red marinara, golden melted cheese, and fragrant herbs. Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh basil for an aromatic touch. Pair it with a crisp green salad and some garlic bread for a meal that screams comfort. The aroma alone will have everyone flocking to the table!

How to Store Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs

Leftovers? Yes, please! This dish keeps well in the refrigerator for about 3-5 days. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container. If you want to store it longer, it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. When it’s time to reheat, simply pop it back in the oven until warmed through, or microwave those portions for a quick dinner fix!

Tips to Make Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs

Use day-old bread for the breadcrumbs for extra texture.
Try to balance the meatball size—too big and they’ll be undercooked; too small, and they may dry out.
A little extra cheese never hurt anyone. Go ahead, be cheesy!
Experiment with adding veggies like spinach or bell peppers into the sauce for a health kick.
Don’t underestimate the importance of seasoning; it makes or breaks the dish!

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Change it up with chicken or turkey meatballs for a lighter twist. Or go full-on vegetarian by substituting the meat with lentils or mushrooms. You could even switch the sauce to a pesto for a fresh, herby flavor explosion!

FAQs

1. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Any gluten-free spaghetti will work just fine without sacrificing flavor.

2. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare everything and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.

3. Is it okay to freeze leftover spaghetti and meatballs?
Definitely! Just make sure it cools completely, then wrap it tightly for the freezer.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!