When you need a meal that feeds a crowd, this Spaghetti and Meatballs Casserole delivers. The pasta and meatballs are baked together under a blanket of cheese for a dinner that feels hearty and satisfying. It’s easy to prepare, can be made in advance, and makes the perfect main dish for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Italian
Keyword dinner, main course, meatballs, pasta, spaghetti
Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F. Then line a baking sheet with foil, place a wire rack on top, and lightly coat the rack with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, mix together the beef, sausage, egg, bread crumbs, grated onion, Parmesan, pepper, garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon of the salt. Shape the mixture into meatballs about 1¾ inches wide, then arrange them on the prepared rack.
Bake the meatballs for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside. Lower the oven temperature to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper and cook for five to six minutes, stirring often, until they begin to soften. Stir in the mushrooms and garlic and cook for another two to three minutes.
Pour in the marinara sauce, sugar, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of salt. Stir well, then add the cooked spaghetti, 1½ cups of the Monterey Jack, and ½ cup of the mozzarella. Mix until the pasta is evenly coated.
Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Arrange the meatballs on top, then sprinkle with the remaining Monterey Jack and mozzarella. Cover the dish with foil.
Bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil before serving, if you like.