Baked spaghetti and meatball casserole is a fun twist on that classic favorite dinner. It is easier to make than lasagna and more fun too!
On top of spaghetti, all covered with cheese. I lost my poor meatball, when somebody sneezed…. Of course spaghetti and meatballs is one of those foods that makes you feel like a kid again.
There is something so fun about long noodles covered in sauce and cheese. Plus there is a satisfaction that comes with taking a bite out of a meatball.
This baked spaghetti and meatball casserole gives you everything you love about the classic combination only better. It is a little bit like the best parts of lasagna mixed with ‘sketti for the perfect combination.
Of course it takes a little bit longer to make, but you can assemble it ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it off if you want. Just add a few minutes to the bake time to compensate for its colder starting temperature.
The time it spends in the oven is time well spent, I assure you. And it will give you plenty of time to make a simple salad and some garlic bread to round out the dinner.
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Substitutions and Variations
We have been enjoying this spaghetti and meatball bake for years. It originally appeared on the site in 2016 and we have remade it quite a few times since.
I usually use the frozen meatballs from the grocery store for convenience. However, you can certainly use homemade meatballs if you prefer.
It is great with either ricotta cheese or cottage cheese. Here in the Midwest they are used interchangeably in dishes like this and lasagna. We have tried both and both are tasty in this spaghetti bake.
More Recipes to Try
If you are a fan of spaghetti and meatballs, you may want to try creamy spaghetti and meatballs in the instant pot too. It is a quick and easy way to whip up dinner!
Or try spaghetti and meatball sliders for an extra fun meal. They are sure to put a smile on everyone’s face.
For more dinner inspiration, check out my collection of pasta recipes. There are so many tasty ways to turn a box of pasta into a fabulous meal.
Spaghetti and Meatball Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound meatballs
- 16 ounces spaghetti noodles
- 24 ounces cottage cheese
- 4 large eggs
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 24 ounces jarred marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Cook your spaghetti to al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.16 ounces spaghetti noodles
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Once your spaghetti is cool enough to handle, stir together the cottage cheese, garlic, eggs, salt, and pepper. Toss the noodles in this mixture and press into a well greased 9×13 pan.24 ounces cottage cheese, 4 large eggs, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Place meatballs on top of spaghetti and distribute sauce over the casserole.24 ounces jarred marinara sauce, 1 pound meatballs
- Cover and bake for 35-40 minutes.
- Remove cover and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Return to oven uncovered to bake for 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and browned to your liking.2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Allow to sit for 10 minutes, then cut and serve.
Notes
Video
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This is a dish that my grandson would just love to eat every day. Thanks so much for sharing your recipe with us at Funtastic Friday.
Thanks, Sherry! It is a fun one, that is for sure. I hope you both enjoy it!
What a great casserole! I love the "squares ". Makes it easy to serve!
Thanks!
Michelle
It is a lot easier to serve too, you're right! Thank you!
Oh. My. Gosh. Yes! We're renting the place we're in now and it has light carpet. EVERYWHERE. (Except bathrooms and kitchen of course) We have two little ones. I keep towels down under their chairs. Once all those college move in sales happen I'll be looking to invest in an area rug or two.
I like your casserole form of spaghetti and meatballs. It's perfect for serving to a crowd, too.
It's the worst isn't it? When we moved in, I didn't think much about it because I was pregnant. Now with a toddler I am acutely aware of the carpet! We just bought some canvas drop cloths from the hardware store and used them for the longest time. They were cheap and machine washable. Now that he's at the big table we take our chances and hope for the best!
Who could resist some of this comfort food goodness?? Looks like a delicious recipe that any family…including mine would love! Delish!
Thanks, Erin! It is definitely a family friendly dinner and a great make-ahead too!
This looks delicious and will be a huge hit in my house this winter! Always looking for way to change up spaghetti and meatballs too.
Thank you! It is a fun way to make a classic new again!
What a great way to enjoy spaghetti and meatballs!
Thanks, Cindy!
This is 100% a win for me!
Thanks, Sarah!
I can see this being such a comforting treat!
It is, hearty and delicious! Thanks, Caroline!
This is such a creative way to change up the usual pasta and meatballs! I can't wait to try it.
It was a hit at our house! Any time you can add two extra cheeses to a dish, it is sure to get thumbs up from my boys. Thanks, Tammi!
My family would love this!! Adding gooey mozzarella to the usual spaghetti and meatballs can only make it better!
Gooey mozzarella makes most things better! I think that is why I love baked pastas so much. Thanks, Liz!