Spaghetti and Meatball Pasta Bake Recipe

This spaghetti and meatball pasta bake is a comforting classic, elevated by baking it with a layer of gooey, melted cheese. The meatballs are homemade, seasoned with a variety of spices, and the pasta is cooked to perfection and coated in a rich, tomato sauce. This satisfying bake is perfect for a family meal or a dinner party.

Photos of Spaghetti and Meatball Pasta Bake Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe can be found in a standard kitchen, such as lean ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, and eggs. However, Worcestershire sauce is a key flavoring ingredient in the meatballs, and while not uncommon, might not be a staple in every home. Also, fresh parsley is used in both the meatballs and the casserole, so you might want to make sure you have enough on hand before starting the recipe.

Ingredients for Spaghetti and Meatball Pasta Bake

Lean ground beef: The main protein source for the meatballs.

Bread crumbs: Used to bind the meatballs and keep them moist.

Milk: Adds moisture to the meatballs.

Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth of flavor to the meatballs.

Onion: Provides a savory base for the meatballs.

Parsley: Adds a fresh flavor to both the meatballs and the casserole.

Egg: Binds the meatball ingredients together and adds richness to the casserole.

Spaghetti: The main carbohydrate source in the casserole.

Olive oil: Used to cook the spaghetti and prevent it from sticking.

Mozzarella cheese: Melts to form a gooey, cheesy layer in the casserole.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the casserole.

Pasta sauce: Forms a rich, tomato base for the casserole.

One reader, Janice Cao says:

This spaghetti and meatball pasta bake recipe is a game-changer! The meatballs are juicy, and the combination of mozzarella and parmesan cheese creates a delightful flavor. The dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy family dinner. It's a definite winner in my recipe collection!

Janice Cao

Techniques Required for Making Spaghetti and Meatball Pasta Bake

How to make meatballs: Combine ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, salt, Worcestershire sauce, pepper, onion, parsley, and egg. Form the mixture into 1-inch balls.

How to bake meatballs: Place the meatballs in a greased 9x13-inch dish and bake at 400°F for 18 to 20 minutes.

How to boil pasta: Boil the spaghetti until al dente, then drain well and toss with olive oil.

How to assemble the casserole: Combine the cooked pasta with a mixture of egg, parsley, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, and pepper. Place the pasta in a 9x13-inch dish, top with the baked meatballs, and pour pasta sauce over the top.

How to bake the casserole: Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 35 minutes. Remove the foil, top with remaining cheeses, and continue baking for about 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and browned.

How To Make Spaghetti and Meatball Pasta Bake

Enjoy a cheesy pasta bake that comes with juicy beef meatballs and a savory pasta sauce. It’s topped with mozzarella and Parmesan for a richer meal!

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour

Total: 1 hour 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Meatballs:

1lblean ground beef
⅓cupfresh bread crumbs
1tbspmilk
½tspsalt
1tspWorcestershire sauce
½tsppepper
¼cuponion,finely chopped
2tbspfresh parsley,chopped
1egg

For Casserole:

8ozspaghetti
1tbspolive oil
2cupsmozzarella cheese,shredded, divided
½cupParmesan cheese,grated
1large egg,slightly beaten
2tbspfresh parsley
28ozpasta sauce

Instructions

Grease a large casserole dish. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
Combine all the meatball ingredients, then form them into 1-inch balls.
Place the meatballs in a 9×13-inch dish and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. Remove from oven and reduce the heat to 350 degrees F. Remove the meatballs and set aside.
Boil the pasta until al dente. Drain well and toss with olive oil.
Stir together the egg, parsley, pepper, ½ cup of mozzarella cheese, ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese, and pepper to taste.
Toss with the pasta and place it in the 9×13-inch dish. Top with meatballs and pasta sauce.
Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove foil, top with remaining cheeses, and continue to bake for about 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and browned.
Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 582.22kcal
Fat: 34.59g
Saturated Fat: 16.83g
Trans Fat: 0.68g
Monounsaturated Fat: 12.39g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.96g
Carbohydrates: 32.49g
Fiber: 2.94g
Sugar: 7.49g
Protein: 34.00g
Cholesterol: 149.82mg
Sodium: 1078.89mg
Calcium: 543.25mg
Potassium: 636.97mg
Iron: 2.91mg
Vitamin A: 209.79µg
Vitamin C: 4.97mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting This Pasta Bake

When forming your meatballs, try to keep them all the same size. This ensures that they all cook evenly and at the same rate. If you have a small ice cream scoop or a melon baller, these can be great tools to help achieve uniform size. Also, don't overwork the meat when mixing the ingredients and forming the balls, as this can result in tough meatballs.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Pasta Bake Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the meatballs and pasta sauce in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Use store-bought: Consider using store-bought pasta sauce to save time and effort.

Multitask: While the meatballs are baking, boil the pasta to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.

Invest in a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly make fresh bread crumbs and chop onions and parsley for the meatballs.

Delegate: Enlist the help of family members or friends to assist with the preparation of the recipe for a fun cooking experience.

Organize ingredients: Before starting, gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment to streamline the cooking process.

Batch cooking: Make a larger batch of meatballs and pasta sauce, then freeze the extra portions for future use to save time on busy days.

One-pot cooking: Consider cooking the pasta and meatballs in the same pot to minimize cleanup and save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Spaghetti and Meatball Pasta Bake Recipe

lean ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a lean and healthy alternative to ground beef, and it can be used as a substitute in many recipes without sacrificing flavor or texture.
fresh bread crumbs - Substitute with panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs have a lighter, flakier texture and will give the dish a crispy and crunchy topping.
milk - Substitute with unsweetened almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that can be used in place of regular milk for a lighter, nuttier flavor.
spaghetti - Substitute with zucchini noodles: Zucchini noodles are a low-carb and gluten-free alternative to traditional pasta, adding extra nutrients and a lighter texture to the dish.
mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese has a similar mild flavor and melts well, making it a great substitute for mozzarella in pasta bakes.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano cheese: Pecorino romano cheese has a sharper and saltier flavor, adding a unique twist to the dish.
pasta sauce - Substitute with homemade marinara sauce: Homemade marinara sauce can be customized with fresh herbs and spices, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Best Way to Present Spaghetti and Meatball Pasta Bake

Elevate the meatballs: Instead of traditional meatballs, consider using a blend of ground beef and veal for a more refined flavor and texture. Additionally, you can infuse the meatballs with a hint of truffle oil for a luxurious touch.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the finished dish with a generous amount of freshly chopped parsley and basil to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Incorporate gourmet cheese: Instead of using standard mozzarella, opt for a combination of burrata and pecorino romano for a more sophisticated and indulgent cheesy topping.
Create a visually appealing arrangement: Arrange the meatballs and pasta in an elegant, oval-shaped dish to create a visually stunning presentation that showcases the layers of flavors in the dish.
Drizzle with aged balsamic reduction: Before serving, drizzle a small amount of aged balsamic vinegar reduction over the pasta bake to add a touch of sweetness and complexity to the dish.
Serve with a side of garlic bread: Accompany the pasta bake with slices of freshly baked garlic bread brushed with truffle butter for an elevated and complementary side dish.

Essential Tools for Making a Delicious Pasta Bake

Oven: An essential appliance for baking and roasting dishes.
Baking dish: A heat-resistant dish used for baking and serving various dishes.
Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta and preparing large batches of soups and stews.
Colander: Used for draining pasta and washing vegetables.
Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients and mixing meatball mixture.
Measuring cups and spoons: Used for accurately measuring ingredients for the recipe.
Whisk: Useful for blending and mixing ingredients thoroughly.
Spatula: Handy for flipping and transferring meatballs and pasta.
Cheese grater: Used for grating fresh cheese to top the pasta bake.
Foil: Used to cover the casserole dish while baking.

Storing and Freezing Spaghetti and Meatball Pasta Bake

Allow the spaghetti and meatball pasta bake to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the dish soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled pasta bake to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For freezing, you have two options:
1. Freeze the entire pasta bake: Cover the cooled dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.
2. Freeze individual portions: Cut the cooled pasta bake into single-serving portions and transfer them to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw the desired number of portions overnight in the fridge and then microwave or bake until heated through.
If you plan to freeze the pasta bake, it's best to slightly undercook the pasta initially, as it will continue to soften during the reheating process.
When reheating frozen or refrigerated pasta bake, be sure to cover it with foil to prevent the top from drying out or burning before the center is heated through.
If you have leftover meatballs, you can freeze them separately on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2-3 months. This way, you can easily add them to other dishes or enjoy them on their own.

How To Reheat Leftover Spaghetti and Meatball Pasta Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover spaghetti and meatball pasta bake in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dish is heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to melt and become golden brown.
For a quicker reheating method, use your microwave. Place a single serving of the pasta bake on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the dish is heated through. Stir the pasta halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
If you have a bit more time, reheat the spaghetti and meatball pasta bake on the stovetop. Place the leftovers in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or pasta sauce to prevent the dish from drying out. Cover the pan and heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is heated through and the meatballs are warm.
For a crispy top, reheat the pasta bake under the broiler. Preheat your broiler to high and place the leftovers in an oven-safe dish. Broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is slightly crispy. Keep a close eye on the dish to prevent burning.
If you have an air fryer, use it to reheat your spaghetti and meatball pasta bake. Place a single serving in the air fryer basket and cook at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until the dish is heated through and the cheese is melted. This method will also give you a slightly crispy top.

Interesting Fact About Spaghetti and Meatball Pasta Bake

Spaghetti and meatball pasta bake is a classic Italian-American dish that originated from the fusion of Italian and American cuisines.

Is Making This Pasta Bake at Home Cost-Effective?

This spaghetti and meatball pasta bake recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as ground beef, pasta, and cheese, are commonly found at affordable prices. The dish yields a generous portion, making it suitable for a family meal. The combination of spaghetti, meatballs, and cheese creates a hearty and satisfying meal. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall Verdict: 9/10

Is This Pasta Bake Healthy or Unhealthy?

This spaghetti and meatball pasta bake recipe, while comforting and delicious, leans towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:

The recipe uses ground beef, which is high in saturated fat and calories
Breadcrumbs and milk are used in the meatballs, adding extra carbohydrates and calories
The dish is topped with a significant amount of cheese, which contributes to the high fat and calorie content
White pasta is used, which is less nutritious than whole grain alternatives

However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients, such as onion, parsley, and pasta sauce, which provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to reduce the saturated fat content
Use whole wheat breadcrumbs and pasta to increase the fiber content and overall nutritional value
Reduce the amount of cheese used, or choose low-fat varieties to cut down on calories and fat
Incorporate more vegetables into the dish, such as grated zucchini or carrots in the meatballs, or add a side salad to balance out the meal
Use a homemade pasta sauce with no added sugars or preservatives to control the ingredients and nutritional content

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Pasta Bake

This spaghetti and meatball pasta bake recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish. The combination of tender meatballs, al dente spaghetti, and gooey melted cheese creates a comforting and satisfying meal. The flavors are well-balanced, and the dish is easy to prepare, making it perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering. The addition of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish. Overall, this recipe is a winner and is sure to become a favorite in any household.

Enhance Your Spaghetti and Meatball Pasta Bake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Savor the aroma of freshly baked garlic bread, with a crispy exterior and soft, buttery interior.

Caesar Salad: Indulge in a classic Caesar salad, with crisp romaine lettuce, savory Parmesan cheese, and homemade dressing.

Roasted Vegetables: Delight in a medley of colorful roasted vegetables, caramelized to perfection and bursting with natural flavors.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love This Pasta Bake

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: This creamy chicken alfredo recipe is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce. It's the perfect meal for a cozy night in.

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: These grilled vegetable skewers are a colorful and flavorful addition to any barbecue or cookout. The combination of fresh veggies, savory marinade, and smoky grill marks make these skewers a crowd-pleaser.

Mango Sorbet: This refreshing mango sorbet is a light and fruity dessert that's perfect for hot summer days. It's made with ripe mangoes, a touch of sugar, and a splash of lime juice for a bright and tangy flavor.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for a Pasta Bake Dinner Party

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for an extra touch of richness.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic bruschetta. Toasted bread is topped with a vibrant mixture of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a decadent, velvety smooth chocolate mousse that will satisfy your sweet cravings. The rich and creamy texture of this dessert will leave you wanting more with every spoonful.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Experience the perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors in a luscious strawberry cheesecake. The creamy filling and buttery graham cracker crust complement the juicy strawberries for a delightful dessert.

Why trust this Spaghetti and Meatball Pasta Bake Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a flavorful experience with lean ground beef and a perfect blend of fresh bread crumbs, onion, and fresh parsley. The combination of mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese adds a rich and indulgent touch. The use of pasta sauce ensures a convenient and delicious result. With carefully selected ingredients such as worcestershire sauce and fresh parsley, this recipe promises a delightful and satisfying pasta bake that will surely impress.

Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum to share your thoughts and experiences with this delicious Spaghetti and Meatball Pasta Bake recipe!

FAQ:

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils. You can also add some finely chopped vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to add more flavor and texture to the meatballs.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this recipe ahead of time. You can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great option for meal prepping or when you want to save time on a busy day.

Can I freeze the pasta bake?

Absolutely! This pasta bake is freezer-friendly. Once the casserole is baked and cooled, you can portion it into individual servings and freeze them in airtight containers. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven until heated through.

What can I serve with this pasta bake?

This pasta bake is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette or some garlic bread to complete the meal. The freshness of the salad or the warmth of the garlic bread complements the rich and comforting flavors of the pasta bake.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use different types of pasta for this recipe. Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are great alternatives to spaghetti. Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape or whatever you have on hand. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the specific pasta you choose.