Name: Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork); ½ cup breadcrumbs; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp chopped parsley; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 12 oz spaghetti; 3 cups marinara or pasta sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tbsp olive oil; Optional: red pepper flakes, fresh basil for garnish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe turns a familiar favorite into an all-in-one dish that’s great for weeknights, gatherings, or meal prep. Baking the spaghetti with meatballs and cheese gives it a slightly crispy top and a rich, cohesive flavor throughout. It’s hearty, family-friendly, and freezer-friendly too.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Spaghetti
Ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
Breadcrumbs
Egg
Parmesan cheese
Garlic
Onion
Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper
Marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Mozzarella cheese
Olive oil
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Directions

I start by preheating my oven to 375°F (190°C).
I cook the spaghetti until just al dente, then drain and set it aside.
For the meatballs, I mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic, chopped onion, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
I shape the mixture into meatballs and either bake them in the oven or sear them in a skillet until browned and cooked through.
In a large mixing bowl, I combine the cooked spaghetti with some of the marinara sauce and mix it well.
I transfer half the pasta into a greased baking dish, add a layer of meatballs and mozzarella, then repeat with the rest of the pasta, meatballs, more sauce, and cheese.
I bake the dish uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
I let it cool slightly before garnishing with chopped parsley or basil and serving.

Servings and timing

This dish serves 6 to 8 people, depending on portion size. It takes about 15 minutes to prep, 25–30 minutes to bake, and around 45 minutes total to get on the table.

Variations

I sometimes use turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the meatballs.
For a spicy twist, I add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or use spicy Italian sausage in the meat mixture.
I like to add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra texture and nutrition.
For a cheesier version, I mix ricotta into the spaghetti before baking.

Storage/Reheating

Once cooled, I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. For quicker meals, I microwave individual portions. This dish also freezes well—I wrap it tightly before baking and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, I bake it straight from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

FAQs

How do I keep the spaghetti from getting mushy?

I always cook the pasta al dente before baking since it continues to cook in the oven. That way, it stays firm and doesn’t get overly soft.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble the entire dish ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. It’s a great make-ahead meal for busy days.

What’s the best cheese to use?

I stick with mozzarella for that gooey texture and mild flavor, but I also love adding Parmesan or provolone for extra depth.

Can I use frozen meatballs?

Absolutely. I just make sure they’re fully cooked before adding them to the casserole. It’s a great shortcut when I’m short on time.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, I swap the meatballs with plant-based versions or roasted vegetables and use vegetarian marinara sauce. It’s still just as hearty and delicious.

Conclusion

Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs is one of those feel-good dishes I always come back to. It’s comforting, filling, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. With its melty cheese, flavorful sauce, and satisfying meatballs, it’s everything I crave in one delicious pan.