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A close-up scoop of the spaghetti and meatball casserole on a spatula, showing the layers of pasta, sauce, meatballs, and melted mozzarella cheese.

Baked Spaghetti Meatballs: The Ultimate Comfort Food Casserole

This Baked Spaghetti Meatballs recipe is the ultimate comfort food casserole! Tender spaghetti, savory meatballs, and rich marinara are baked under a blanket of bubbly, golden-brown cheese for an easy, family-favorite dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian-American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb spaghetti cooked al dente
  • 24 oz marinara sauce your favorite brand
  • 1.5 lbs cooked meatballs homemade or frozen
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 2 large eggs lightly beaten
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper or to taste

Equipment

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

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook spaghetti according to package directions for al dente. Drain well.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, half of the marinara sauce (12 oz), ricotta cheese, beaten eggs, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, and all of the Parmesan cheese. Season with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is thoroughly combined.
  3. Spread half of the spaghetti mixture into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  4. Arrange the cooked meatballs in a single layer over the spaghetti. Pour the remaining 12 oz of marinara sauce evenly over the meatballs.
  5. Top with the remaining spaghetti mixture, spreading it into an even layer.
  6. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can broil for the last 1-2 minutes for a more golden-brown top, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  8. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set up for easier slicing.

Notes

Tip 1: For the best results, use freshly grated cheese. Pre-shredded cheeses have additives that can prevent them from melting as smoothly.
Tip 2: Feel free to use homemade meatballs or your favorite brand of frozen, pre-cooked meatballs to save time.