Cheesy Baked Spaghetti with Meatballs: A One-Pan Dinner Delight

Craving the perfect comfort meal that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor? This Cheesy Baked Spaghetti with Meatballs combines the rich, savory taste of spaghetti and meatballs with the irresistible allure of a golden, cheesy topping. Ideal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or cozy dinners, this one-pan wonder will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s bake up some deliciousness!

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef or pork
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Spaghetti:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup water or chicken broth
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano

For the Cheese Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Meatballs

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Roll into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through.

2. Cook the Spaghetti

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

3. Prepare the Sauce

1. In a large skillet, heat the marinara sauce, water or chicken broth, garlic powder, and dried oregano over medium heat. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss until well coated.

4. Assemble the Casserole

1. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the sauced spaghetti evenly on the bottom.
2. Place the baked meatballs over the spaghetti.
3. Add the remaining spaghetti and sauce on top, ensuring the meatballs are evenly distributed.
4. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the dish.

5. Bake the Casserole

1. Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. For a golden crust, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

6. Garnish and Serve

1. Let the baked spaghetti rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for added flavor and a pop of color.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cheesy and Satisfying: The gooey, golden cheese topping takes this dish to the next level.
• One-Pan Wonder: Simplifies cleanup while delivering a full meal in one dish.
• Customizable: Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra nutrients.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when ready for an effortless meal.
2. Double the Recipe: Make extra meatballs to freeze for quick meals later.
3. Use Fresh Herbs: Basil or parsley adds a refreshing touch to balance the richness.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought meatballs?
Yes! Pre-cooked meatballs save time and work perfectly in this recipe.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

3. Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! Freeze the fully assembled (unbaked) casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Cheesy Baked Spaghetti with Meatballs with:

• Garlic Breadsticks: Perfect for scooping up the extra sauce.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp, tangy greens complement the hearty pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli or zucchini adds a light and healthy side.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Baked Spaghetti with Meatballs is a winning combination of classic flavors and comforting textures. From the saucy spaghetti to the golden cheesy crust, it’s a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try today and enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite!