Baked spaghetti and meatball casserole is one of those comforting dishes that wraps you in a warm hug with every bite. It takes me back to the cherished Sunday afternoons spent in Mama Lou’s cozy kitchen, where the scent of garlic and simmering tomatoes would fill the air as laughter echoed through the rooms. My sister, Ouma, and I would watch in awe as Mama Lou effortlessly transformed simple ingredients into a feast that brought our family together. Today, I’m excited to share this recipe with you, hoping it brings the same sense of warmth and togetherness to your table as it has to mine.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Baked Spaghetti and Meatball Casserole
There’s something truly magical about the combination of tender spaghetti, juicy meatballs, and rich, homemade tomato sauce all baked to perfection under a blanket of gooey cheese. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of family, tradition, and love. The simplicity of the ingredients belies the depth of flavor that emerges from the oven, making it a favorite for both casual dinners and special occasions. As you savor each bite, you’ll find yourself transported to a place where food is more than sustenance—it’s a way to create lasting memories with those you hold dear.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Baked Spaghetti and Meatball Casserole
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 12 oz |
| Ground beef | 1 lb |
| Bread crumbs | 1/2 cup |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1/4 cup |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Crushed tomatoes | 28 oz can |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Mozzarella cheese, shredded | 2 cups |
| Fresh basil, chopped | For garnish |
For a twist, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. If you’re feeling adventurous like Mama Lou often did, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce will give it a little kick, reminiscent of those fiery family debates that were always settled over a good meal.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sugar | 8g |
| Sodium | 800mg |
The Ultimate Comfort: Baked Spaghetti and Meatball Casserole Extravaganza
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Baked Spaghetti and Meatball Casserole Extravaganza. A delicious blend of spaghetti, meatballs, and cheese, baked to perfection.
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 12 oz |
| Ground beef | 1 lb |
| Bread crumbs | 1/2 cup |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1/4 cup |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Crushed tomatoes | 28 oz can |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Mozzarella cheese, shredded | 2 cups |
| Fresh basil, chopped | For garnish |
For a twist, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. If you’re feeling adventurous like Mama Lou often did, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce will give it a little kick, reminiscent of those fiery family debates that were always settled over a good meal.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain.
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, onion, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
- In a skillet, brown meatballs over medium heat until cooked through.
- In a separate pot, heat crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning; simmer.
- Combine cooked spaghetti with tomato sauce and meatballs; mix well.
- Transfer to a casserole dish, top with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- For a creamier casserole, add ricotta cheese to the spaghetti mixture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: undefined
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: undefined
- Sodium: undefined
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: undefined
- Unsaturated Fat: undefined
- Trans Fat: undefined
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: undefined
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: undefined
Steps to Create Your Baked Spaghetti and Meatball Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, half of the minced garlic, half of the diced onion, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Form the meat mixture into golf-ball-sized meatballs. Arrange them on a baking sheet and bake for about 15 minutes, or until they’re browned and cooked through.
In a large saucepan over medium heat, sauté the remaining garlic and onion until fragrant and translucent. Add the crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
In a large casserole dish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom. Add the cooked spaghetti, meatballs, and remaining sauce, ensuring everything is well-coated.
Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy!
Tips for Making the Best Baked Spaghetti and Meatball Casserole
For a casserole that truly embodies the spirit of Mama Lou’s kitchen, take your time with the sauce. Letting it simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you’re running short on time, using store-bought sauce is perfectly fine, but don’t skimp on the garlic and onions—they’re the heart of this dish.
Another tip from my sister Ouma: when forming meatballs, wet your hands slightly to prevent the mixture from sticking. And remember, have fun with it! Cooking is as much about the process as it is about the result, and sometimes the best flavors come from those spontaneous moments of creativity.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This baked spaghetti and meatball casserole is a meal in itself, but pairing it with a simple side salad and a slice of crusty garlic bread makes it a feast fit for any gathering. A light, crisp white wine or a robust red can elevate the meal further, creating an experience that lingers long after the last bite.
For dessert, something light and refreshing like lemon sorbet or a fruit tart can provide the perfect ending to this hearty meal, echoing the culinary balance that Mama Lou always strived for.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers can be a blessing, especially with a dish as delightful as this. Store any remaining casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply cover and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
If you want to freeze the casserole, assemble it without baking, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it overnight. Simply bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
Feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar or provolone for a different flavor profile. Mama Lou often used what she had on hand, and it always turned out delicious.
How can I make this dish more kid-friendly?
Consider shaping the meatballs into fun, smaller sizes or adding a sprinkle of grated cheese on top of individual servings for an extra cheesy delight.
Final Thoughts
This baked spaghetti and meatball casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to the power of food to bring people together. Each step, from rolling the meatballs to layering the casserole, is an opportunity to connect with loved ones, relive cherished memories, and create new ones. As you enjoy this dish, I hope you feel a part of the warmth and love that has been passed down through generations in my family. Bon appĂ©tit!
