Cheesy Baked Spaghetti with Meatballs: A Family Favorite Comfort Dish
Craving something cheesy, hearty, and delicious? This Cheesy Baked Spaghetti with Meatballs is the ultimate comfort food that combines the flavors of classic spaghetti with a bubbly, golden layer of melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night at home, this easy-to-follow recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 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 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried basil
For the Cheesy Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatballs
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Arrange the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked.
2. Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Combine the Sauce and Spaghetti
- In a large skillet or mixing bowl, combine the marinara sauce, water or chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried basil.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss until evenly coated.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Grease a large oven-safe skillet or 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the sauced spaghetti evenly in the dish.
- Place the baked meatballs on top of the spaghetti.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
5. Bake the Casserole
- Place the assembled casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh and vibrant finish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Cheesy and Comforting: Layers of gooey cheese and hearty spaghetti make this dish a true comfort classic.
- Perfect for Sharing: Great for family meals, gatherings, or meal prepping.
- Easy to Customize: Swap the meatballs for sausage, ground turkey, or plant-based alternatives.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: It melts better and adds more flavor than pre-shredded cheese.
- Double the Meatballs: Make extra and freeze them for quick meals later.
- Add Veggies: Sneak in some sautéed spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole (without baking), cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
3. Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! Freeze the baked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C).
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Cheesy Baked Spaghetti with Meatballs with:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up the extra sauce and cheese.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
- Steamed Vegetables: Serve with broccoli or green beans for a healthy side.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Baked Spaghetti with Meatballs is the perfect marriage of classic Italian flavors and cozy comfort food. With its cheesy topping, hearty meatballs, and saucy spaghetti, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a family favorite. Try it today and bring a warm, satisfying meal to your table!
