Baked Spaghetti Meatballs
A comforting and hearty dish that combines spaghetti and meatballs, topped with gooey melted cheese and marinara sauce.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 oz spaghetti (cooked & drained) Tender, al dente strands that soak up the sauce beautifully.
- 1 jar marinara or pasta sauce (24 oz) Rich, tangy sauce that envelops the spaghetti and meatballs.
Meatballs
- 15-20 cooked meatballs (homemade or frozen & thawed) Juicy, flavorful bites that provide a hearty protein punch.
Cheeses
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella Gooey, melted cheese that creates a delightful topping.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan Nutty, savory cheese that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Binding and Seasoning
- 1 egg A binding agent that helps unify the spaghetti mixture.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning A blend of herbs that transports your dish to the sunny hills of Italy.
- Salt & pepper to taste Essential seasonings for enhanced flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, egg, half a cup of shredded mozzarella, and a generous drizzle of marinara sauce.
- Spread the spaghetti mixture evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Arrange cooked meatballs atop the spaghetti.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the meatballs.
- Sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, add Italian seasoning, and a dash of pepper.
Baking
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Consider adding diced bell peppers or onions to your sauce for extra flavor. Mix in ricotta cheese for creaminess or use whole-wheat spaghetti for a healthier option. For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes.