Baked Spaghetti And Meat Balls
Hearty baked spaghetti with flavorful meatballs, tomatoes, and bacon, baked to perfection. A comforting dish ideal for family dinners and gatherings with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti until tender.
- Add mashed tomatoes, chopped onions, chopped green pepper, tomato sauce, and cooked bacon to the spaghetti.
- Form hamburger into small meatballs and brown them.
- Place the cooked spaghetti mixture and meatballs in an oven dish with meat on top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding Italian seasoning or garlic powder to the meatballs. If you're short on time, store-bought meatballs can be used instead of making them from scratch. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger for a lighter option. Make sure to stir the spaghetti mixture well to combine all ingredients evenly before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked spaghetti and meatballs with a side of garlic bread and a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top can enhance the flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Country-Cousin Baked Beans for a hearty, comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil to retain moisture and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for quicker serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Spaghetti And Meat Balls contains roughly 227 calories, with 8g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1515mg per serving (66% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with other pasta types like penne or rigatoni. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose, as each type may require different boiling times for optimal tenderness.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, you can omit the meatballs and replace them with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers. You can also use meat substitutes or lentils for added protein, while keeping the rest of the ingredients the same.
Can I freeze baked spaghetti and meatballs?
Yes, this dish freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).