Cheesy Baked Spaghetti with Meatballs

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Servings:

6–8 servings

Ingredients FOR Cheesy Baked Spaghetti with Meatballs

12 oz spaghetti (or your favorite pasta)

  • 1 (24 oz) jar of marinara sauce (or homemade sauce)

  • 1 lb fully cooked meatballs (store-bought or homemade)

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional, for creaminess)

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • Fresh or dried parsley (for garnish)

  • Salt & pepper to taste

  • Olive oil (for greasing the pan)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Cook pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti until al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain and set aside.

  3. Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, marinara sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss until well coated.

  4. Add meatballs: Fold in cooked meatballs gently so they’re evenly distributed.

  5. Layer it up:

    • Lightly grease a cast iron skillet or 9×13″ baking dish with olive oil.

    • Add the pasta and meatball mixture.

    • Dot with ricotta if using.

    • Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

  6. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

  7. Garnish with parsley and let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes & Tips:

  • Shortcut: Use frozen meatballs to save time. Just defrost before baking.

  • Cheese blend: Try adding provolone or fontina for a flavor boost.

  • Make ahead: Assemble the dish a day ahead and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

  • Freezer-friendly: Freeze leftovers or the unbaked dish (covered tightly) for up to 2 months.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving, Est.):

  • Calories: 480–520

  • Protein: 25g

  • Carbs: 45g

  • Fat: 25g

  • Fiber: 4g

  • Sugar: 6g

  • Calcium: 20% DV

Note: Nutrition may vary based on exact brands and ingredients used.

Benefits

  • Kid-friendly: Even picky eaters love it.

  • Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for potlucks, family dinners, or gatherings.

  • Budget-friendly: Uses pantry staples.

  • High in protein: Thanks to meatballs and cheese.

  • Customizable: Use gluten-free pasta, vegetarian meatballs, or dairy-free cheese to suit dietary needs.

Q & A:

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Swap meatballs for plant-based ones or roasted veggies.

Q: What can I serve with this?
A: Garlic bread, a fresh Caesar salad, or steamed broccoli work great.

Q: Can I reheat leftovers?
A: Yes! Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions.

Q: Can I use a different pasta?
A: Yes! Penne, ziti, or rotini hold sauce and cheese well.

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