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Spaghetti Meatball Casserole: The Ultimate Recipe

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A hearty and comforting baked pasta dish featuring al dente spaghetti tossed in a savory meat sauce, layered with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces spaghetti
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add the ground beef or sausage to the skillet, browning it for 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  5. Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  6. In a large bowl, toss the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce until well coated.
  7. Transfer half of the mixture into the baking dish and sprinkle with half of the mozzarella.
  8. Add the remaining spaghetti mixture and top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
  9. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is golden.
  10. Let cool for 5 minutes and garnish with parsley before serving.

Notes

  • To make it ahead, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate; add 10 minutes to the covered baking time.
  • For a spicier kick, add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
  • Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente so it doesn't become mushy during the baking process.

Nutrition

Keywords: Spaghetti Meatball Casserole, Baked Spaghetti, Comfort Food, Family Dinner, Meat Sauce Pasta

Find it online: https://www.mealsmell.com/spaghetti-meatball-casserole-recipe/