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Irresistible Spaghetti and Meatball Casserole

Irresistible Spaghetti and Meatball Casserole for Cozy Nights

Discover the Irresistible Spaghetti and Meatball Casserole, a comforting one-dish delight perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 580

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Opt for 80/20 or 85/15 for juicy meatballs.
  • 1 cup Bread Crumbs Adds structure and moisture retention.
  • 1/2 cup Milk Non-dairy milk can be used.
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust according to taste.
  • 1.5 tsp Worcestershire Sauce Choose gluten-free if needed.
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper Freshly cracked is recommended.
  • 1 small Onion Finely minced; onion powder can work.
  • 2 tbsp Parsley Can be replaced with basil or oregano.
  • 1 large Egg Binds the mixture; vegan alternatives can work.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic is a substitute.
For the Casserole
  • 8 oz Spaghetti Cooked al dente for best texture.
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil Prevents spaghetti from sticking.
  • 1 large Additional Egg Binds the cheesy pasta together.
  • 3/4 cup Mozzarella Cheese Plus 1.75 cups for topping.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Plus 1/2 cup for topping.
  • 28 oz Pasta Sauce A quality marinara like Rao’s is recommended.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Pot for spaghetti
  • Oven

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
  2. Finely mince the onion and gather all ingredients for mixing.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, milk, salt, Worcestershire sauce, pepper, minced onion, parsley, egg, and garlic powder. Mix gently until well combined.
  4. Shape meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs, aiming for about 20 to 24. Arrange them in the greased baking dish and bake for 18 to 20 minutes.
  5. While meatballs are baking, cook spaghetti according to package instructions until 1-2 minutes before al dente. Toss with olive oil after draining.
  6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the additional egg, parsley, mozzarella, Parmesan, and pepper. Pour this over the cooked spaghetti and stir gently.
  7. Spread the cheesy spaghetti mixture in the baking dish, layer the meatballs on top, and pour pasta sauce over everything.
  8. Cover dish with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 minutes.
  9. Remove foil, sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes.
  10. Let casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 580kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 190mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Enjoy this comforting dish alongside a crisp green salad.

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