Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
15 mins
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Cook Time
30 mins
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Total Time
45 mins
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Servings
6 servings
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Course
Main Course
Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs
Description
Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs features homemade meatballs crafted from ground beef and pork, mixed with egg, panko, Parmesan, and a mix of spices, formed into medium-sized balls and browned in olive oil. Spaghetti is cooked and mixed with marinara sauce before layering in a baking dish with the browned meatballs and shredded mozzarella. The assembled dish is baked until hot and the cheese melts into a golden, bubbly crust. The seasoning notes of garlic powder, onion powder, and subtle warm spices enhance the savory character of the meatballs and balance the acidity of the tomato sauce.
The texture contrasts tender pasta with firm meatballs and a creamy melted cheese topping. Garnishing with fresh parsley adds brightness. This recipe works well for a comforting main course, suitable for family meals or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 3 cups marinara sauce homemade or store-bought
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
- 2 tablespoons parsley chopped fresh leaves
For the meatballs
- 8 ounces ground beef
- 8 ounces ground pork
- 1 egg beaten, large
- ¼ cup panko
- ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese freshly grated
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
- Pinch nutmeg
- salt to taste, Kosher salt and freshly ground
- black pepper to taste, Kosher salt and freshly ground
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly oil a 9×9 baking dish or coat with nonstick spray.
- In a large bowl, combine beef, pork, egg, Panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, allspice and nutmeg; season with salt and pepper, to taste. Using a wooden spoon or clean hands, stir until well combined. Roll the mixture into 1 1/4-to-1 1/2-inch meatballs, forming about 18-20 meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add meatballs, in batches, and cook until all sides are browned, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate; set aside.
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package instructions; drain well and stir in marinara sauce.
- Add pasta to the prepared baking dish and top with meatballs; sprinkle with mozzarella. Place into oven and bake until bubbly and heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Serve immediately, garnished with parsley, if desired.