“`html
An Engaging Introduction
Who doesn’t love a hearty plate of spaghetti and meatballs? It’s a classic comfort food that warms the soul and fills the belly. Our Baked Meatball & Spaghetti Recipe takes this beloved dish to the next level by combining rich flavors and a satisfying texture, perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it uses a blend of ground beef and pork, ensuring the meatballs are juicy and flavorful. The addition of fresh herbs and spices elevates the dish, bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients. Plus, it’s baked, which means less time spent standing over a hot stove. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to this dish, you’re sure to appreciate its delicious simplicity.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 9″x9″ baking pan
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Saucepan
- Large saucepan
- Paper towels
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
For the Meatballs
- 8 ounces ground beef
- 8 ounces ground pork
- 1 large egg, scrambled
- 1/4 cup panko
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground spices
- Pinch of nutmeg
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9″x9″ baking pan or coat it with non-stick spray.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, egg, panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, allspice, and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper. Use a wooden spoon to mix until just combined. Roll the mixture into meatballs about 1/4 to 1/2 inch in size, making approximately 18-20 meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels and set aside.
- In a large saucepan of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain well and stir in the marinara sauce.
- Add the pasta to the prepared baking dish and top with meatballs. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven until bubbly and heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Don’t over-mix the meatball ingredients to keep them tender.
- Ensure the meatballs are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
- Use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
Additional Tips or Variations
Add a splash of red wine to the marinara sauce for depth of flavor. Consider adding chopped green peppers for an extra layer of taste and texture.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Each serving of this Baked Meatball & Spaghetti Recipe provides a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, making it a wholesome meal choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use all beef instead of a beef-pork mix? Yes, you can, but the pork adds a nice richness to the meatballs.
- Is there a substitute for panko? Regular breadcrumbs can be used, but panko provides a lighter texture.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! Prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.
Conclusion
Our Baked Meatball & Spaghetti Recipe is a comforting dish that’s sure to become a new favorite. We invite you to try it out and let us know how it turned out. Share your experience and any creative twists you put on it—we’d love to hear from you!
“`