Savor the richness of homemade meatballs, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and melt-in-your-mouth cheeses, all harmonized in a San Marzano marinara sauce. This Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs recipe promises an ooey-gooey delight in every bite!
Ah, Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs – the dish that brings back so many fond memories! When I was a kid, every Sunday, our house would be enveloped by the tantalizing aroma of marinara sauce slowly simmering on the stove. Mama used to say that a good meal is like a warm hug from the inside, and boy, did this dish feel like the cuddliest embrace! It became our family’s special Sunday feast. Years later, with a few tweaks here and there, I’ve continued the tradition. Except, unlike the Sundays of my youth where we’d patiently wait for dinner, in our home now, the wafting scent of this baked beauty leads to a countdown for when we can dig in!
Why You’ll Love This Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs:
What sets our Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs apart? Well, for starters, it’s a one-pan wonder, ensuring you less cleanup and more me-time (or wine-time, I don’t judge). Secondly, the fusion of colby-jack with mozzarella is the real game-changer – think of it as the dynamic duo of cheese world. Finally, the undercooked spaghetti that’s further baked allows it to absorb that robust San Marzano marinara sauce, offering an orchestra of flavors in every forkful!
Ingredient For This Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs:
- Meatballs: While the recipe uses homemade meatballs, you can use store-bought ones if you’re in a pinch. Just ensure they’re fully cooked.
- Marinara Sauce: San Marzano sauce is recommended because of its rich, less acidic taste, but feel free to use your family favorite.
- Cheese: The blend of colby-jack and mozzarella offers a balance of creamy and stretchy. But you know, cheese is subjective, so adjust to your cheesy desires!
- Spaghetti Noodles: Don’t overcook them initially; they’ll finish cooking in the oven, soaking up all the saucy goodness.
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How To Make Baked Spaghetti & Meatballs:
- Sauté the Base: Start by warming up that cast iron skillet. Sauté your onions in olive oil until they’re singing (aka tender). Add your crushed garlic and let them dance together for a bit.
- Meatball Party: Introduce your cooked meatballs to the onion-garlic duo. Let them mingle.
- Sauce it Up: Pour in that lush San Marzano marinara sauce and sprinkle the Italian seasoning. Allow this mix to simmer gently; it’s basically bonding time for them.
- Pasta Time: In another pot, cook your spaghetti but remember, we’re going for al dente minus two minutes. Trust me.
- Merge the Masters: Using your Hercules strength (or just a slotted spoon), scoop out the meatballs and set them aside. Now, transfer that slightly undercooked spaghetti into your marinara. Add about half a cup of the pasta water. This water’s starchy magic will help the sauce cling to the pasta. Stir with love.
- Layer it Right: Arrange the meatballs over the spaghetti like they’re the crown jewels. Shower them with your cheeses.
- Bake to Perfection: Into the oven it goes! Bake until the cheese forms a golden blanket and the sauce bubbles with excitement. And voila!
Storage Options:
Leftovers? Lucky you! This dish tastes even better the next day. Just store in an airtight container and refrigerate. When reheating, you can either microwave it (easy peasy) or bake it again for a few minutes (cheese gets bubbly round two!).
Variations & Substitutions:
- Vegan Vibes: Swap meatballs for plant-based ones, use vegan cheeses, and ensure your marinara is vegan-friendly.
- Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure your meatballs and sauce are gluten-free.
- Cheese Choices: Not a fan of colby-jack or mozzarella? Try provolone or even cheddar. It’s your cheesy universe!
- Spice it Up: For those who like it hot, throw in some red chili flakes or fresh jalapenos. Because why not?
Happy cooking, folks! And remember, the joy of this dish isn’t just in eating it, but in the memories you create while making and sharing it. Cheers to many ooey-gooey moments!