Description
This Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Casserole combines the rich flavors of smoky turkey bacon, hearty ground beef meatballs, al dente spaghetti, luscious natural tomato sauce, and creamy plant-based cheese, all baked to golden perfection. A wholesome, family-friendly casserole that offers a one-dish comfort meal with layers of savory goodness and fresh herbal touch.
Ingredients
Scale
Spaghetti and Meatballs
- 12 oz spaghetti, precooked al dente
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (natural)
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Smoky Bacon and Sauce
- 4 oz smoked turkey bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 oz tomato sauce (natural)
- 1/4 cup grape juice
- 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
Casserole Assembly
- 1 1/2 cups plant-based cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp natural gelling agent
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Spaghetti and Meatballs: Cook the spaghetti until just al dente according to package instructions, then drain and set aside. In a bowl, mix the ground beef with finely chopped onions, minced garlic, Italian seasoning (natural), and a pinch of salt. Shape the mixture into small meatballs. Heat olive oil in a large pan and sear the meatballs on all sides until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon: Using the same skillet, add the chopped smoked turkey bacon and sauté until crisp and fragrant, infusing the dish with a smoky flavor base.
- Make the Sauce: Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the bacon in the pan, and sauté gently until translucent. Stir in the natural tomato sauce, grape juice, and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken slightly while the flavors meld together.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, browned meatballs, and the bacon-tomato sauce mixture. Stir in half of the shredded plant-based cheese and gradually add the natural gelling agent, mixing well to help bind the casserole for the perfect texture.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the mixture into an even layer in a casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining plant-based cheese evenly on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Notes
- Cook spaghetti al dente to maintain ideal casserole texture and avoid mushiness.
- Season meatballs well as they are the central flavor component of the dish.
- Mix ingredients evenly to ensure consistent flavors and good cheese distribution.
- Choose plant-based cheese with excellent melting qualities for creaminess.
- Let the casserole rest 10 minutes after baking for easier slicing and flavor melding.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 casserole
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: baked spaghetti casserole, meatballs casserole, plant-based cheese, turkey bacon, comfort food, gluten free pasta
