Italian Meatball Spaghetti Stack

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 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.
3. Shape the mixture into meatballs (about 1 ½ inches in diameter) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the meatballs are browned and cooked through.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

1. While the meatballs are baking, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water.
2. 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

1. 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.
2. Place a meatball on top of each spaghetti nest, then spoon a small amount of marinara sauce over each meatball.
3. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of each stack for a gooey, melted layer.

Step 4: Bake the Stacks

1. Preheat your oven to broil.
2. 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

1. Carefully remove each spaghetti stack from the muffin tin using a fork or spatula.
2. 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!

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Enjoy serving up this show-stopping Italian favorite!