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Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs

A comforting dish of spaghetti and meatballs topped with gooey cheese and savory marinara, perfect for family dinners.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 pound ground beef Provides a rich and hearty flavor.
  • 1 pound Italian sausage Adds spiciness and depth.
  • 1 large egg Binds the ingredients together.
  • 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs Contributes texture.
  • 1 small grated onion Adds natural sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese Enhances flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Imparts warmth.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Adds aromatic flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Essential for flavor.
For the Sauce and Pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing vegetables.
  • 1 large diced onion Brings sweetness to the sauce.
  • 1 large diced green bell pepper Adds color and crunch.
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms Provides umami flavor.
  • 2 cloves minced garlic Enhances flavor.
  • 24 ounces marinara sauce Flavorful foundation.
  • 1 teaspoon sugar Optional, to balance acidity.
  • 8 ounces spaghetti Hearty base of the dish.
  • 1.5 cups Monterey Jack cheese Adds creaminess.
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese For a gooey top layer.
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil For garnish.
  • additional sauce marinara sauce For drizzling on top.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet with foil. Place a wire rack on it and lightly spray with cooking spray.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, Italian sausage, egg, bread crumbs, grated onion, Parmesan cheese, black pepper, garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
  3. Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 3/4 inches wide and place them on the prepared rack.
  4. Cook the meatballs in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then set them aside to cool.
  5. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and lightly coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
Cooking
  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and add diced onion and bell pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes until softened.
  2. Stir in sliced mushrooms and minced garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the marinara sauce and optional sugar, adding the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt, then stir well.
  4. Add the cooked spaghetti, 1 1/2 cups of Monterey Jack cheese, and 1/2 cup of mozzarella, mixing until well-coated.
  5. Pour the pasta mixture into the greased baking dish and arrange the baked meatballs on top.
  6. Sprinkle the remaining cheeses over the meatballs and pasta.
  7. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes.
  8. After 30 minutes, uncover the dish and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Top with fresh basil before serving, if desired.

Notes

For creamy texture, consider adding a layer of ricotta cheese before baking. This dish freezes well—just adjust baking time when reheating.