Easy Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe

If you are craving a classic, comforting dish that brings family and friends together, this Easy Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe is just what you need. Featuring juicy, tender meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce (natural) and topped with melted plant-based cheese, this baked pasta dish combines simple ingredients for a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week. Baking the spaghetti and meatballs adds a delightful texture and depth of flavor you won’t forget.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Comfort Food: This dish offers all the warmth and satisfaction of a homemade Italian classic with minimal fuss.
• Juicy Meatballs Every Time: The secret blend of spices and moisture keeps meatballs tender and flavorful.
• Rich Tomato Sauce (natural): A perfectly balanced sauce adds depth and brings all the flavors together beautifully.
• Melted Plant-Based Cheese: Adds a creamy, cheesy finish that makes every bite irresistible.
• One-Pan Wonder: Combining pasta, sauce, and meatballs in one dish saves on dishes and time, making cleanup simple.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Easy Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs is in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the perfectly spiced meatballs to the fresh tomato sauce (natural), every component is essential to creating that iconic flavor and texture.

• Ground beef or lamb: Choose fresh ground meat to keep your meatballs juicy and tender.
• Breadcrumbs: Help bind the meatballs and keep them soft inside.
• Onion and garlic: Freshly minced to add aromatic depth and enhance flavor.
• Crushed tomatoes (natural): The base of the sauce, offering brightness and a balanced sweetness.
• Apple cider vinegar: Adds a subtle tang that lifts the sauce’s flavor profile.
• Spices and herbs: Oregano, basil, salt, and pepper create that signature Italian taste.
• Spaghetti pasta: Cooked al dente so it won’t become mushy after baking.
• Plant-based cheese: Melted on top for a gooey, comforting finish.
• Natural Worcestershire sauce (vegetarian): Adds a savory umami punch to the meatballs without overpowering.
• Olive oil: For sautéing and adding richness to the sauce.
• Natural gelling agent: Helps achieve perfect sauce consistency and hold everything together in the bake.

Variations for Easy Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to mix and match based on what you have on hand or any dietary preferences. You can make it your own in just a few simple swaps.

• Vegetarian version: Swap ground meat for plant-based crumbles or lentils to enjoy a meat-free twist.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the sauce and meatballs for a bit of heat.
• Using whole wheat spaghetti: Choose whole grain pasta for more fiber and a nuttier flavor.
• Herb variations: Swap oregano with rosemary or thyme for an aromatic change.
• Cheesy options: Try different plant-based cheeses like mozzarella-style or Parmesan-style for distinct melty textures.

How to Make Easy Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground meat with breadcrumbs, minced onion, garlic, natural Worcestershire sauce (vegetarian), spices, and a splash of olive oil. Mix gently to avoid compacting the meat too much, then shape into small bite-sized meatballs. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides until they develop a nice crust but are not fully cooked through. This helps lock in juiciness and flavor. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Tomato Sauce (natural)

In the same skillet, sauté more minced garlic and onions until soft. Add crushed tomatoes (natural), apple cider vinegar, herbs, spices, and natural gelling agent to thicken the sauce slightly. Let it simmer to develop rich, deep flavors.

Step 4: Boil the Spaghetti

Cook spaghetti pasta in boiling salted water just until al dente, then drain well. Be careful not to overcook since it will finish baking in the oven with the sauce and meatballs.

Step 5: Combine and Bake

In a large baking dish, mix the cooked spaghetti with the tomato sauce (natural), then nestle the browned meatballs on top. Sprinkle a generous layer of plant-based cheese over everything. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden, and the meatballs are cooked through.

Pro Tips for Making Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh oregano and basil can brighten the sauce for that authentic Italian taste.
• Don’t skip browning: Browning meatballs adds a fantastic flavor and seals in juices.
• Under-cook pasta slightly: Allowing the spaghetti to finish cooking in the oven prevents mushiness.
• Layer flavors: Letting the sauce simmer with the natural gelling agent improves texture and intensifies flavor.
• Customize cheese toppings: Experiment with melting different plant-based cheeses for varied textures and tastes.

How to Serve Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil leaves or parsley adds a beautiful color contrast and fresh herbal note that lifts the entire dish.

Side Dishes

Serve with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon juice and olive oil or a side of roasted vegetables for extra nutrients and texture.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, serve the baked spaghetti and meatballs straight from an attractive ceramic dish and let guests help themselves, adding extra plant-based cheese or chili flakes at the table for a personalized touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover baked spaghetti and meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It tastes even better after the flavors meld overnight.

Freezing

Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing in a suitable container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which helps keep the meatballs juicy and the cheese nicely melted. You can also use a microwave for convenience but cover to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While spaghetti works beautifully, penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are great alternatives that hold sauce well and add variety.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta to enjoy this dish without gluten, keeping the same delicious flavors intact.

How do I keep meatballs from falling apart?

Be gentle when mixing ingredients and let the meatball mixture rest before cooking; this helps everything bind together better.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Definitely. Replace ground meat with plant-based crumbles and use vegan plant-based cheese along with all other ingredients to keep it delicious and satisfying.

Is it better to bake or simmer meatballs in the sauce?

Baking with the sauce lets the flavors meld beautifully while creating a pleasing baked texture and cheese crust that simmering alone doesn’t achieve.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines tradition with ease and deliciousness. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekends, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and dive into this warm, hearty meal full of flavor and comfort.

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