Description

Looking for a hearty, family-friendly dish that combines the comforting flavors of spaghetti, savory meatballs, and gooey melted cheese? This Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs recipe is a showstopper that’s perfect for any occasion. With layers of al dente pasta, rich marinara, and a cheesy golden topping, this dish is destined to become a household favorite. Whether you’re using homemade or store-bought meatballs, the result is a cozy, satisfying meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Ingredients

• For the Meatballs:
• Homemade or store-bought fully cooked meatballs (quantity as desired)
• For the Sauce:
• 2 cups San Marzano marinara sauce (or your favorite marinara)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• For the Pasta:
• 1 pound spaghetti noodles
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
• For the Cheese Layer:
• 1 cup shredded colby-jack cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Preparation Method

Sauté the Base:
Warm up your trusty cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until tender and fragrant. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Meatball Party:
Add the cooked meatballs to the skillet, letting them absorb the flavors of the onion-garlic base. Stir gently to coat the meatballs evenly.

Sauce it Up:
Pour in the rich San Marzano marinara sauce and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Stir well and allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, ensuring all the flavors meld together beautifully.

Pasta Time:
Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water. Be sure to cook it two minutes shy of al dente, as it will finish cooking in the oven. Reserve half a cup of pasta water before draining.

Merge the Masters:
Remove the meatballs from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set them aside. Add the slightly undercooked spaghetti to the marinara sauce in the skillet, along with the reserved pasta water. This starchy addition will help the sauce adhere to the pasta. Mix gently to coat every strand with love.

Layer it Right:
Transfer the saucy spaghetti into a greased baking dish. Arrange the meatballs on top, spacing them evenly like precious gems. Sprinkle the shredded colby-jack and mozzarella cheeses over the entire dish, ensuring a generous, even layer.

Bake to Perfection:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

Tips and Conclusion

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding fresh basil or a drizzle of garlic butter before serving. Pair with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also prep this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it, baking just before serving for ultimate convenience.

This Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs is the ultimate comfort food, combining the heartiness of pasta, the richness of marinara, and the indulgence of melted cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings, it’s a dish that never fails to impress. Explore more easy-to-follow recipes on our site to keep your culinary adventures exciting and delicious. Don’t forget to share your creations and let us know how you made it your own!