🍝 Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Casserole

A warm, cheesy, comforting classic that combines tender spaghetti, juicy meatballs, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese baked together in one irresistible dish. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep for busy days — especially if you’re working long hours at the restaurant and want something hearty waiting at home.

🏛️ History of Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs

Spaghetti and meatballs became popular in the United States thanks to Italian immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. While meatballs (“polpette”) are traditional in Italy, serving them with large portions of spaghetti in tomato sauce became especially famous in United States.

The casserole version developed later as a convenient American-style baked dish, combining pasta and meat in one pan for easier serving and richer flavor through baking.

🛒 Ingredients

🍝 For the Pasta

• 500g spaghetti
• 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

🥩 For the Meatballs

• 500g ground beef (or half beef, half veal)
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

🍅 For the Sauce

• 3 cups tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

🧀 For Assembly

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• Fresh basil (optional)

🔪 Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. In a large bowl, mix beef, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, Parmesan, parsley, salt, pepper, and oregano.
2. Form into small balls (about walnut size).
3. Bake at 190°C for 20 minutes OR pan-fry until browned.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Boil salted water.
2. Cook spaghetti until al dente (firm).
3. Drain and toss lightly with olive oil.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a pan.
2. Sauté onion until soft.
3. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
4. Stir in tomato sauce, paste, sugar, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.

🏗️ Formation (Assembly)

1. Preheat oven to 180°C.
2. In a large baking dish:
   
   • Layer half the spaghetti.
   • Add half the sauce.
   • Place meatballs evenly.
   • Add remaining spaghetti.
   • Pour remaining sauce.
4. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
5. Cover with foil and bake 20 minutes.
6. Remove foil and bake 10–15 more minutes until golden and bubbly.

Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

🌿 Benefits of This Dish

✔ High in protein (meat & cheese)

✔ Provides carbohydrates for energy

✔ Rich in calcium from cheese

✔ Comfort food that boosts mood

✔ Perfect for family bonding

If you’re studying and working, this dish gives long-lasting energy.

❤️ Why People Love It

• Kids love the cheesy top
• Adults enjoy the rich tomato flavor
• Easy to reheat
• Great for gatherings
• Smells amazing while baking

It’s a dish that brings everyone to the table.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread
• Add green salad on the side
• Pair with sparkling water or fresh juice
• Garnish with fresh basil

💡 Extra Cooking Methods

• You can use turkey instead of beef
• Add ricotta between layers for creaminess
• Make it spicy with chili flakes
• Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option

🎯 Conclusion

Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Casserole is the perfect combination of tradition and comfort. Inspired by Italian flavors and American-style baking, it transforms simple ingredients into a rich, satisfying meal.