Irresistible Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Family Favorite
A classic comfort food that combines tender meatballs, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese baked to golden perfection. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
· 1 pound ground beef
· 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
· 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
· 1/4 cup milk
· 1 large egg
· 2 cloves garlic, minced
· 1 teaspoon salt
· 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
· 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
· 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For the Sauce:
· 2 tablespoons olive oil
· 1 small onion, finely chopped
· 3 cloves garlic, minced
· 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
· 1 teaspoon sugar
· 1 teaspoon dried basil
· 1 teaspoon dried oregano
· Salt and pepper to taste
For the Baked Spaghetti:
· 12 ounces spaghetti
· 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
· 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
· Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix meatball ingredients and form 1½-inch meatballs.
3. Brown meatballs in olive oil for 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet.
4. Sauté onion and garlic in the same skillet until soft. Add crushed tomatoes, sugar, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer 10 minutes, then add meatballs back into the sauce.
5. Cook spaghetti until al dente, drain, and toss lightly with olive oil.
6. In a baking dish, layer sauce, spaghetti, meatballs, and cheese. Repeat layers, topping with remaining cheese.
7. Cover with foil and bake 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
· Meatballs can be made ahead and refrigerated.
· Perfect for freezing before baking for a make-ahead meal.
· Substitute half of the beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
· Let the dish rest 5 minutes before serving to help it set.