A comforting, hearty dish that combines savory meatballs, a creamy tomato sauce, and al dente spaghetti, all layered and baked to perfection. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this Italian-inspired meal is sure to delight everyone at the table.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef: Use a blend of ground pork, beef, or turkey for added flavor.
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs: Acts as a binder for tender meatballs.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty richness.
- 1 egg: Helps the mixture bind together.
- 1/4 cup ketchup: Adds a touch of sweetness and moisture to the meatballs.
- 1/4 cup chopped onion: Finely diced for even mixing and flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle kick of garlic flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adjust to your taste preferences.
For the Sauce:
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: The base of the sauce, providing tangy flavor.
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup: Adds creaminess and depth to the sauce.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Enhances the richness of the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic Italian herb that complements the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Pairs perfectly with the tomato and mushroom flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: For seasoning balance.
For the Pasta:
- 1 pound spaghetti: Cooked to al dente for the best texture and structure in the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, ketchup, chopped onion, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Shape the mixture into evenly-sized small meatballs, about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter.
2. Cook the Meatballs:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the meatballs in batches, turning them occasionally to brown all sides evenly. Ensure they are fully cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F or 71°C).
- Transfer the cooked meatballs to a plate and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, cream of mushroom soup, Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Stir well to mix the ingredients and heat over medium-low heat.
- Simmer the sauce for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
4. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the spaghetti and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
5. Assemble the Dish:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Layer half of the cooked spaghetti evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
- Top the spaghetti with half of the cooked meatballs, spreading them out evenly.
- Spoon half of the sauce over the meatballs, ensuring everything is covered.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti, meatballs, and sauce.
6. Bake the Spaghetti Stack:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent drying.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes.
- In the last 5 minutes of baking, remove the foil and sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese or mozzarella over the top for a golden, bubbly finish.
7. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve hot with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables.
Tips for Success:
- Customize the Meatballs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for spice, or swap ketchup with marinara sauce for a tangier flavor.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers into the sauce or layers for added nutrition.
- Cheese Lovers: Top the dish with a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan before baking for a gooey, cheesy finish.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs for a celiac-friendly version.
- Prep Ahead: Assemble the dish the night before, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: ~520 kcal
- Protein: ~30 g
- Carbohydrates: ~45 g
- Fat: ~20 g
- Serving Size: Approximately 8 hearty portions.
This Italian Meatball Spaghetti Stack is a showstopper, offering layers of savory goodness in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or indulging in comfort food cravings, this dish delivers a satisfying, flavorful experience. Mangia bene! 🇮🇹✨