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

1. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat and sauté chopped onion in olive oil until tender. Add minced garlic and cook for one more minute.

2. Add cooked meatballs to the skillet and stir gently to coat with the onion and garlic.

3. Pour in marinara sauce and add Italian seasoning. Stir and let simmer for 5-7 minutes.

4. Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until two minutes shy of al dente. Reserve half a cup of pasta water, then drain.

5. Remove meatballs from the skillet and set aside. Add spaghetti and reserved pasta water to the marinara sauce. Mix gently to coat the spaghetti.

6. Transfer spaghetti to a greased baking dish. Place meatballs on top and sprinkle with colby-jack and mozzarella cheeses.

7. Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and golden. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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!