Oven-Baked Spaghetti Meatball Casserole

This hearty Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Casserole brings together flavorful homemade meatballs, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a savory marinara sauce, all topped with a bubbly blend of mozzarella and Parmesan.
Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Casserole
Meatball Ingredients
| INGREDIENT | QUANTITY |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Breadcrumbs | 1/2 cup |
| Grated Parmesan | 1/4 cup |
| Milk | 1/4 cup |
| Finely chopped onion | 1/4 cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Dried oregano | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Dried basil | 1/2 teaspoon |
Casserole Ingredients
| INGREDIENT | QUANTITY |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 12 ounces |
| Marinara sauce | 1 jar (24 ounces) |
| Shredded mozzarella | 1 1/2 cups |
| Grated Parmesan | 1/4 cup |
| Fresh basil | Optional |
How to Make Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Casserole
Step 1 — Heat Oven & Prepare Meatballs
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, milk, onion, egg, and seasonings. Blend well and roll into meatballs about 1–1½ inches in size.
Step 2 — Cook Pasta & Brown Meatballs
Prepare the spaghetti according to the package until just al dente, then drain. Warm a bit of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sear the meatballs until they’re browned on all sides.
Step 3 — Create the Base Layer
Spread half of the marinara sauce across the bottom of the prepared dish. Lay the cooked spaghetti over the top.
Step 4 — Add the Sauce & Arrange Meatballs
Pour the remaining marinara over the spaghetti and gently toss to coat. Position the browned meatballs evenly across the casserole.
Step 5 — Add Cheese & First Bake
Scatter the mozzarella and Parmesan over the top. Cover with foil and bake for about 25 minutes.
Step 6 — Finish Baking
Remove the foil and continue baking for 10–15 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the meatballs register 160°F (71°C). Garnish with fresh basil if desired.




