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- Prepare the Meatballs:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix everything together until well combined. Don’t overmix, or the meatballs may turn out tough.
Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove them from the oven and set aside. - Cook the Spaghetti:
While the meatballs are baking, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook the pasta al dente since it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain and set aside. - Make the Marinara Sauce (if making from scratch):
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Add the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add oregano, sugar (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender or transfer the sauce to a blender. - Assemble the Baked Spaghetti:
In a large baking dish (9×13 inches works well), combine the cooked spaghetti and marinara sauce. Add the meatballs to the dish and stir gently to mix everything together.
Top the mixture with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle a little extra Parmesan over the top for added flavor.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. - Serve:
Remove the baked spaghetti from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil for an extra burst of flavor and color.
Serve the baked spaghetti with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for the perfect meal.
Why You’ll Love Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs
Layered with Flavor: By baking the spaghetti with the meatballs and cheese, you allow all of the flavors to meld together beautifully. The pasta soaks up the savory marinara sauce, and the cheese becomes wonderfully melted and gooey.
Comfort Food Heaven: This dish is the ultimate comfort food, combining all your favorite pasta elements into one warm, cheesy casserole. It’s hearty and filling, perfect for satisfying your cravings.
Convenient and Easy: With simple ingredients and just a few easy steps, this dish comes together quickly. Baking the pasta and meatballs together in one dish reduces cleanup and makes the whole process more efficient.
Perfect for Family Dinners: Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs is a great dish for feeding a crowd or a hungry family. It’s filling, flavorful, and just the right amount of indulgent without being overly complicated to make.
A Make-Ahead Meal: This dish is perfect for meal prep or make-ahead dinners. You can assemble it the night before, store it in the fridge, and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake. It also reheats wonderfully, making it a great option for leftovers.
Tips for Making the Best Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs
Use a Lean Ground Meat: While ground beef is traditional, you can opt for lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the dish. If using turkey, consider adding a little extra seasoning for flavor.
Make the Sauce Your Own: If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, or if you love herbs, throw in some fresh basil or oregano. You can even add a splash of red wine to the sauce for depth of flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, it’s important to undercook it slightly. Aim for al dente, so the noodles don’t become too soft after baking.
Use Fresh Mozzarella: For an extra touch of creaminess and flavor, try using fresh mozzarella cheese instead of pre-shredded. It melts beautifully and adds a rich, delicious texture to the dish.
Add Veggies: Want to sneak in some extra nutrition? Toss in some sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach into the sauce for added flavor and texture.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs is everything you love about classic spaghetti and meatballs, with the added bonus of being baked into a cheesy, comforting casserole. It’s a dish that’s perfect for feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or serving up at your next dinner party. Whether you stick to the traditional version or get creative with the ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
So, grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and enjoy the delicious layers of pasta, meatballs, and melted cheese in this irresistible dish! Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs is the ultimate in cozy, satisfying meals.
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