Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork the meat.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs (about 1 ½ inches in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
- While the meatballs are baking, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water.
- Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Add 1 cup of marinara sauce to the pasta and toss to coat.
Step 3: Assemble the Spaghetti Stacks
- Grease a muffin tin generously. Using tongs, twist a portion of the spaghetti around the tongs and place it in each muffin cup, pressing down lightly to form a nest.
- Place a meatball on top of each spaghetti nest, then spoon a small amount of marinara sauce over each meatball.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of each stack for a gooey, melted layer.
Step 4: Bake the Stacks
- Preheat your oven to broil.
- Place the muffin tin under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden. Keep a close eye to avoid burning!
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Carefully remove each spaghetti stack from the muffin tin using a fork or spatula.
- Place on a serving platter or individual plates, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.
Tips for Success
- Use a Muffin Tin for Perfect Stacks: This helps keep each stack uniform and makes it easy to serve.
- Don’t Overwork the Meatball Mixture: Gently mixing the meatball ingredients helps keep them tender and juicy.
- Experiment with Sauces: While marinara is a classic choice, you can try a creamy Alfredo or spicy arrabbiata sauce for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
The Italian Meatball Spaghetti Stack is perfect as a main course with a side of garlic bread or a simple Caesar salad. For a well-rounded meal, add a glass of Italian red wine or sparkling water with lemon for a complete dining experience.
Conclusion
Italian Meatball Spaghetti Stack combines the traditional flavors of spaghetti and meatballs with a modern, elegant presentation. It’s a perfect recipe to surprise family and friends, adding a little creativity to a classic Italian meal. This stacked version brings all the savory, cheesy goodness we love, with a look that’s as impressive as its taste. Try it out at your next gathering and watch as everyone digs in with delight!
Enjoy serving up this show-stopping Italian favorite!
