Go Back
An extreme close-up of a fork lifting a bite of cheesy meatball spaghetti bake from a casserole dish, showing the texture of the sauce and pasta.

Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs (The Ultimate Comfort Casserole)

A hearty and delicious Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs casserole. This easy recipe features tender spaghetti, savory meatballs, rich marinara, and a perfectly melted cheese topping, making it the ultimate comfort food dinner.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian-American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb spaghetti
  • 24 oz cooked meatballs frozen or homemade
  • 32 oz marinara sauce your favorite brand
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese low-moisture, whole milk
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese divided
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • 1 Large Pot
  • 1 Large Bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions, but ensure it is very al dente (about 2 minutes less than the package recommends). Drain well.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, 2 cups of marinara sauce, 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper and toss until the spaghetti is evenly coated.
  4. Spread a half cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Add half of the spaghetti mixture in an even layer. Arrange the meatballs on top. Cover with the remaining spaghetti mixture.
  5. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the spaghetti. Sprinkle evenly with the shredded mozzarella and the remaining 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
  7. Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

Tip 1: For the best results, use freshly grated cheese. Pre-shredded cheese can contain additives that prevent it from melting smoothly.
Tip 2: Undercooking the pasta is essential! It will finish cooking in the oven, and this prevents it from becoming mushy.
Tip 3: Let the casserole rest before cutting into it. This allows it to set up, making for cleaner slices.