Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti

• 1 (24–26 oz) jar marinara sauce

• 1 (14–16 oz) bag frozen fully cooked meatballs
  (or homemade—your choice!)

• 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese

• 1 cup sour cream

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella

• ½ cup grated Parmesan

• 2 tbsp butter, melted (optional)

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Fresh basil or parsley for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. Prep

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.

2. Cook the pasta

• Cook spaghetti until just al dente (about 1 minute under package time).

• Drain and toss with melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Mix the creamy layer

• In a bowl, combine:

  • Ricotta

  • Sour cream

  • 1 cup mozzarella

  • Italian seasoning

  • Parmesan

• Stir until evenly mixed.

4. Assemble the casserole

Layer in the 9×13 dish:

1. Spaghetti (spread evenly)

2. Creamy cheese mixture (spread over pasta)

3. Frozen meatballs (scatter evenly)

4. Marinara sauce (pour on top)

5. Top with remaining mozzarella

5. Bake

• Cover with foil and bake 30 minutes.

• Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve

• Rest for 5–10 minutes.

• Garnish with basil or parsley.

• Slice and enjoy!