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Spaghetti and Meatball Casserole

Spaghetti and Meatball Casserole: A Cozy Family Favorite

A delicious Spaghetti and Meatball Casserole that combines tender meatballs with al dente spaghetti and gooey cheese, perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 6 portions
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1.25 lb Ground Beef Use 80/20 for optimal moisture.
  • 1/2 cup Bread Crumbs Use crushed crackers or panko for crunch.
  • 2 tbsp Milk Omit based on dietary preferences.
  • 3/4 tsp Salt
  • 1.5 tsp Worcestershire Sauce Lea & Perrins is a popular choice.
  • 1/2 tsp Pepper
  • 1/4 cup Onion Finely minced.
  • 2 tbsp Parsley Can substitute with basil or oregano.
  • 2 total Egg A flax egg can be used for a vegan alternative.
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be an alternative.
For the Casserole
  • 8 oz Spaghetti Cooked al dente.
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil Can use another oil or butter.
  • 3/4 cup Mozzarella Cheese Use freshly shredded for best melting.
  • 1.75 cups Mozzarella Cheese Additional to sprinkle on top.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated is recommended.
  • 28 oz Pasta Sauce Rao’s Marinara is highly recommended.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • large pot

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly oil a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, salt, Worcestershire sauce, pepper, minced onion, parsley, and eggs. Mix gently to combine and form into 1-inch meatballs.
  3. Arrange the meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes until cooked through and lightly browned.
  4. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add spaghetti and cook 1-2 minutes less than package instructions for al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil.
  5. In the pot with the drained spaghetti, add an egg, chopped parsley, mozzarella, and parmesan. Stir until well combined.
  6. Spread the spaghetti mixture evenly in the baking dish, place meatballs on top, and pour sauce over everything.
  7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes.
  8. Remove the foil, sprinkle remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the casserole and bake for another 10 minutes until golden and melted.
  9. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1portionCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg

Notes

You can prepare the casserole fully in advance and refrigerate or freeze it unbaked for easy meal prep.

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