Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Casserole Recipe

Certainly! Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Casserole:

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Casserole:

• 1 pound spaghetti
• 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Additional grated Parmesan for topping
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

For the Meatballs:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet.
4. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and browned on the outside.

For the Casserole:

5. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Toss until the spaghetti is well coated.
7. Grease a large baking dish. Place half of the spaghetti mixture in the bottom of the dish.
8. Arrange the baked meatballs on top of the spaghetti.
9. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the meatballs.
10. Cover the meatballs and cheese with the remaining spaghetti mixture.
11. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and additional grated Parmesan.
12. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
13. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
14. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Enjoy your Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Casserole! It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners.