Can you bake the meatballs instead of frying them?

Yes, baking is a healthier and easier alternative to frying. It uses less oil, requires less hands-on time, and results in evenly cooked meatballs.

How long should you bake meatballs for spaghetti?

Meatballs should be baked at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, depending on their size. Larger meatballs may require a few extra minutes.

Can you use different types of pasta with baked meatballs?

Absolutely. While spaghetti is the traditional choice, you can substitute it with penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta.

Can you make baked meatballs and spaghetti ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance, store them in the refrigerator or freezer, and assemble the dish when ready to bake.

What’s the best way to reheat baked meatballs and spaghetti?

Reheat the dish in the oven for the best results. Cover it with foil to retain moisture and prevent the cheese from over-browning.

Can you freeze baked meatballs and spaghetti?

Yes, this dish freezes very well. For best results, freeze the components separately or as individual portions.

Baked Meatballs and Spaghetti Easy Family Recipe

Description

Baked Meatballs and Spaghetti is a comforting and hearty dish featuring juicy, oven-baked meatballs made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and garlic, all simmered in marinara sauce. Served over perfectly cooked spaghetti, this classic Italian-inspired meal is easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners. It’s a delicious combination of tender meatballs and flavorful tomato sauce, garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of richness.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs:

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce and Pasta:

1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
12 ounces spaghetti
Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil.
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined. Form into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat. Add the baked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
Serve the meatballs and sauce over the cooked spaghetti. Garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 servings
Calories: 500 kcal

Keywords: Baked Meatballs and Spaghetti