Description
Spaghetti with a Giant Meatball is a playful, over-the-top twist on classic spaghetti and meatballs. Instead of a handful of small ones, this version features one large, tender, flavor-packed meatball baked or simmered in marinara sauce and served on a bed of spaghetti. It’s hearty, fun to eat, and makes a great dinner centerpiece!
Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
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1/4 cup breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 egg
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tbsp chopped parsley or basil
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
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1/2 tsp dried oregano
For the Sauce and Pasta:
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2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
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6 oz spaghetti
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1 tbsp olive oil
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Grated Parmesan and fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish.
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In a bowl, combine all meatball ingredients. Mix until just combined — don’t overmix.
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Form the mixture into one large meatball (about the size of a softball) and place in the baking dish.
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Spoon 1/2 cup of the marinara sauce over the meatball.
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Cover loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes, or until the meatball is cooked through (internal temp 160–165°F).
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Meanwhile, cook spaghetti in salted boiling water according to package directions. Drain and toss with olive oil.
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Heat the remaining marinara sauce in a small saucepan.
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To serve, twirl spaghetti into a bowl or plate, place the giant meatball on top, and ladle extra sauce over everything. Garnish with Parmesan and herbs.
Notes
For a cheesy surprise, stuff a small cube of mozzarella into the center of the meatball before baking. This dish also works well served in a deep pasta bowl or sliced into wedges like a meatloaf. Great for kids or entertaining with a fun presentation!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes