Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs

The aroma of warm marinara sauce mingling with melting cheese fills the kitchen as you prepare a delicious dish that embodies comfort food at its finest. Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs is a hearty meal that takes just over an hour to make, perfect for a cozy family dinner or to impress guests. This recipe shines with its mix of tender spaghetti, savory meatballs, and gooey cheese, making it a dish everyone will love.

This recipe is perfect for families or small gatherings. Serve it on a busy weeknight or during a weekend get-together. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The tender spaghetti takes on a rich flavor from the marinara and meatballs.
• Layering creates a delightful contrast between the cheesy crust and the hearty filling.
• It’s an easy one-dish meal that minimizes cleanup.
• The optional fresh herbs elevate the dish with a fresh burst of flavor.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious meal.

For the Pasta

• 12 oz spaghetti (about 3/4 of a standard 1 lb box)

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 24 oz marinara sauce (about 3 cups; use your favorite jarred or homemade sauce)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Meatballs

• 20–25 small cooked meatballs (homemade or store-bought, about 1½–2 inches in diameter)

For the Cheese

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Serving

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Spaghetti: any pasta shape of choice
• Marinara sauce: homemade sauce or another preferred jarred sauce
• Mozzarella: any melty cheese like cheddar or provolone
• Meatballs: veggie meatballs for a vegetarian version

How to Make It

Follow these steps to create your Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs.

Preheat Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cook the Pasta

Boil spaghetti in salted water until just al dente. Drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil.

Prepare the Sauce

In a pan, sauté diced onion in olive oil until soft. Add garlic and cook briefly. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Warm the Meatballs

Add cooked or thawed meatballs to the sauce. Let everything simmer for a few minutes.

Layer the Casserole

In the baking dish, layer half of the spaghetti, followed by half of the meatballs and sauce. Sprinkle with a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat the layers.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Let rest for 5 minutes. Top with chopped parsley or basil and serve hot.

How to Store It

Fridge: up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: yes, up to 3 months.
Reheat: microwave or oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Cook the spaghetti just until al dente for the best texture post-baking.
• Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors.
• Use high-quality marinara sauce to enhance overall taste.
• Let the dish sit after baking to improve sliceability.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad for a balanced meal.
• Pair with garlic bread for a classic Italian dinner.
• Enjoy on a chilly night for a comforting feast.