spaghetti and meatball bake recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
spaghetti and meatball bake recipe
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The Best spaghetti and meatball bake recipe

This spaghetti and meatball bake recipe has been a staple in my household for years. It’s a classic comfort food dish that never fails to please.

The combination of tender meatballs, flavorful sauce, and perfectly cooked spaghetti is a match made in heaven. I love how this recipe can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary needs.

My kids adore it, and it’s a great way to get them to eat their veggies. As an added bonus, this dish is surprisingly easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

I’ve experimented with different variations over the years, but the original recipe remains my favorite. The key to this dish is using high-quality ingredients, especially the meatballs and pasta sauce.

A good meatball should be made with a combination of ground meats and spices, while the sauce should be rich and tangy without being too sweet. When cooked correctly, the meatballs should be tender and juicy, while the spaghetti should be al dente and coated in just the right amount of sauce.

Spaghetti and Meatball Bake

Spaghetti and Meatball Bake

4.7 from 1396 votes

A comforting and hearty dish featuring tender meatballs baked with spaghetti in a rich tomato sauce. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 5 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Meatballs

500g ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

1 can (800g) crushed tomatoes
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Bake

500g spaghetti, cooked
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and black pepper.
3Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
4Shape the meatball mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5Place the meatballs in a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are browned and cooked through.
6While the meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
7Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
8Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
9Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
10In a large pot of boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
11Drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
12Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and pour the tomato sauce over them in the baking dish.
13Add the cooked spaghetti to the baking dish, mixing it gently with the meatballs and sauce to ensure everything is well combined.
14Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the spaghetti and meatball mixture.
15Place the baking dish back in the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.
16Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
17Sprinkle with fresh basil, and serve hot.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking dish
Large pot
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 850mg🌾Total Carbs: 48g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also use a mix of ground beef and pork for the meatballs.

Watch Video Of How Spaghetti and Meatball Bake Works

I always have this spaghetti and meatball bake on hand because it’s an excellent choice for any occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a comforting meal after a long day, this recipe never fails to impress.

It’s also incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a main course or use it as a base for future meals by adding different ingredients like vegetables or lean proteins.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Spaghetti and Meatball Bake

1

What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

This recipe works best with a long, thin pasta shape like spaghetti or linguine.

2

Can I use pre-cooked meatballs instead of making them from scratch?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked meatballs as a substitute; however, keep in mind that they may not have the same flavor and texture as homemade ones.

3

How do I store leftover spaghetti and meatball bake?

You can store leftover spaghetti and meatball bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

4

Can I make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the pasta?

5

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians or vegans?

No, this recipe contains ground meats and cheese, making it unsuitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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