Craving a meal that’s rich, hearty, and guaranteed to win over the whole family? This baked spaghetti and meatballs recipe is a cheesy, saucy dream that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table. Made with tender turkey meatballs, a savory marinara sauce, and layers of melted cheese, it’s the perfect one-pan dish for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly pasta dishes or a satisfying weeknight dinner idea, this easy recipe delivers big flavor without the fuss. It’s also ideal as a make-ahead baked spaghetti casserole that you can pop in the oven when you’re ready to eat. Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to comfort food!
Ingredients and Preparation Steps
This delicious baked spaghetti and meatballs recipe comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients and easy steps. Follow this guide to create a meal that’s bound to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1½ dozen fully cooked turkey meatballs
- 24 oz marinara sauce (your favorite jar or homemade)
- ½ yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ¾ lb spaghetti noodles
- 1–2 cups shredded cheese (mozzarella + colby-jack blend)
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
Step 1: Sauté Onion and Garlic
First, heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-low heat. Add the diced onion and sauté gently until soft and translucent. Stir in the crushed garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes, releasing a fragrant aroma that builds the flavor base.
Step 2: Simmer the Sauce with Meatballs
Next, stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Gently add the turkey meatballs, nestling them into the sauce. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes on low heat so the flavors meld and the meatballs warm through.
Step 3: Cook and Prepare the Pasta
Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti in a separate pot according to the package instructions, but undercook by 2 minutes. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water. This step ensures the pasta doesn’t overcook during baking and helps it absorb the sauce better.
Step 4: Combine Pasta with Sauce
Then, carefully remove the meatballs from the sauce and set them aside. Add the spaghetti and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss until all noodles are well-coated in the rich marinara sauce.
Step 5: Add Meatballs and Cheese
Next, return the meatballs to the skillet by placing them evenly over the pasta. Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously across the top, followed by a layer of grated parmesan for a golden, bubbly finish.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Finally, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20–30 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted, golden brown, and the dish is hot and bubbling. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving with a crisp green salad and crusty bread.
Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs: The Peak Enjoyment Moment
Imagine that first forkful—steaming hot spaghetti wrapped in savory marinara, topped with gooey cheese and a tender turkey meatball. The combination of textures—melty, stringy cheese with al dente pasta and juicy meatballs—creates a mouthwatering experience. The smell of garlic and herbs fills the kitchen, making this dish impossible to resist.
This meal is perfect for Sunday dinners, busy weeknights, or whenever you’re craving comfort food recipes. Pair it with a crisp Caesar salad or garlic-roasted vegetables for a balanced feast. For more hearty meal ideas, check out our slow cooker chicken and barbecue dinner options.
For another delicious twist on this classic, don’t miss this fantastic recipe for baked spaghetti and meatballs from Joy In Every Season.
Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs FAQs
Can I make baked spaghetti and meatballs ahead of time?
Yes! This make-ahead baked spaghetti casserole is ideal for prepping in advance. Assemble the entire dish and store it in the fridge. Bake when ready to serve.
What kind of cheese works best for baked spaghetti?
A blend of mozzarella and colby-jack adds creaminess and flavor, while parmesan gives it a golden, savory finish. Use freshly grated cheese for the best results.
Can I use homemade marinara sauce?
Absolutely. A homemade marinara sauce adds depth and freshness to this recipe. But your favorite jarred sauce works just as well for convenience.
Are turkey meatballs a healthier option?
Yes, turkey meatballs are leaner than traditional beef and offer a lighter option for those seeking healthy turkey meatballs for spaghetti without sacrificing flavor.
How do I keep baked spaghetti from drying out?
Adding reserved pasta water helps the sauce cling to the noodles and prevents dryness. Covering with foil during the first half of baking also keeps it moist.
Pro Tips
- Use an oven-safe skillet: A cast-iron or stainless steel pan lets you go straight from stovetop to oven without dirtying extra dishes.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Undercook your spaghetti by 2 minutes to prevent it from getting mushy during baking.
- Reserve pasta water: This starchy liquid helps bind the sauce to the noodles, keeping everything moist and flavorful.
- Customize your cheese blend: Try smoked provolone, Monterey jack, or fontina for a unique twist on the classic cheesy topping.
- Let it rest before serving: Waiting 5 minutes after baking allows everything to set, making it easier to serve perfect portions.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven covered with foil for 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions with a splash of water to retain moisture.
- Avoid overcooking: When reheating, cover the dish to prevent the cheese from hardening or burning.
Perfect Pairings
- Caesar salad: Crisp romaine with creamy dressing adds a refreshing balance to the rich, cheesy pasta.
- Garlic bread: Buttery, crunchy slices are perfect for soaking up leftover sauce.
- Steamed green beans or broccoli: Light vegetables round out the meal and add nutritional value.
- Lemon-infused water or iced tea: A refreshing beverage keeps the meal light and satisfying.
Make It Tonight and Savor the Comfort
There’s nothing quite like gathering around the table to share a dish that’s as heartwarming as it is satisfying. This baked spaghetti and meatballs recipe brings people together with its savory sauce, gooey cheese, and tender turkey meatballs—all baked to perfection in one skillet.
Want to switch things up? Try using whole wheat spaghetti or a gluten-free noodle option. You can also add in sautéed veggies like bell peppers or spinach for a nutritional boost. No matter how you make it, this dish delivers cozy, family-approved comfort every time.
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your pasta-loving friends and tag us when you recreate it. For more family-friendly pasta dishes and weeknight dinner ideas, subscribe to our blog and get fresh recipes delivered right to your inbox!
Print
Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs
- Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins
- Yield: 8
Description
Looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s family-approved and weeknight-friendly? This Baked Spaghetti & Turkey Meatballs dish is your new best friend! Everything comes together in one pan, topped with melty cheese, and baked to golden perfection. It’s saucy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying!
Ingredients
– 1½ dozen fully cooked turkey meatballs
– 24 oz marinara sauce (your favorite jar or homemade)
– ½ yellow onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, crushed
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– ¾ lb spaghetti noodles
– 1–2 cups shredded cheese (mozzarella + colby-jack blend)
– ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. First, sauté the diced onion in olive oil over medium-low heat in a large oven-safe skillet. Add the garlic and cook until the onions are soft.
2. Next, stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and add the turkey meatballs. Simmer for about 20 minutes.
3. After that, cook the spaghetti in a separate pot according to package directions, but undercook by 2 minutes.
4. Then, remove the meatballs from the sauce and set aside. Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the sauce with about ½ cup of the pasta water. Toss to coat.
5. Next, place the meatballs on top of the pasta. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and parmesan.
6. Finally, bake at 350°F for 20–30 minutes until hot and bubbly. Serve with salad and crusty bread for the full experience!
Notes
Make this ahead and refrigerate—just pop it in the oven when you get home for a stress-free dinner night!
- Category: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Calories: 889 kcal
- Fat: 39g
- Carbohydrates: 86g
- Protein: 41g