Description
Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Casserole is a comforting plant-based twist on a classic favorite. Featuring tender smoked turkey meatballs, creamy plant-based cheese, and spaghetti coated in a savory tomato sauce enhanced with natural gelling agents, this casserole is a warm, satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Spaghetti and Meatballs
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground smoked turkey
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried basil (natural)
- 1 tsp dried oregano (natural)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Tomato Sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 oz tomato sauce with natural gelling agent
- 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese and Seasoning
- 2 cups plant-based cheese (shredded)
- Fresh parsley or basil (natural), for garnish
- Crushed chili flakes (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: Mix ground smoked turkey with finely chopped garlic, salt, pepper, basil, and oregano (natural). Form mixture into bite-sized meatballs and brown gently in olive oil over medium heat until cooked through and smoky in flavor.
- Cook the Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain well to keep noodles firm during baking.
- Make the Tomato Sauce: Sauté minced onions and garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add tomato sauce with natural gelling agent and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Simmer until sauce thickens to a creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss cooked spaghetti with the tomato sauce. Stir in about two-thirds of the shredded plant-based cheese and add the browned meatballs. Mix gently to coat evenly.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining plant-based cheese over the top for a golden, bubbly crust.
- Bake and Serve: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese on top is golden brown and bubbling. Let rest for five minutes before serving.
Notes
- Brown meatballs properly to enhance smokiness and texture.
- Drain pasta well to prevent a soggy casserole.
- Use fresh herbs to elevate aroma and flavor.
- Do not skip the natural gelling agent for perfect sauce consistency.
- Let casserole rest before serving to deepen flavors and hold shape.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: baked casserole, spaghetti bake, meatballs, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey, tomato sauce, comfort food, family dinner, easy recipe
