Spaghetti Meatball Bake

Ingredients

1 1/2 C. dry bread crumbs, divided

3 large eggs, lightly beaten

1 1/2 C. cooked spaghetti, coarsely chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 tsp. dried basil

3/4 tsp. salt

1 tsp. dried oregano

1 tsp. pepper

2 lbs ground beef

Sauce:

2 jars (24oz ea.) meatless pasta sauce

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 tsp. dried basil

 1 tsp. dried oregano

2 C. (8oz) shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

Directions

1) Preheat oven 375 degrees. Place 1 C. bread crumbs in a shallow bowl. In a large bowl, combine eggs, chopped spaghetti, garlic, seasonings & remaining bread crumbs. Add beef; mix lightly but thoroughly. Shape into 1 1/2 in. balls.

2) Roll meatballs in bread crumbs; place in a greased 13x9 in. baking dish. Bake 15-20 min or until cooked through.

3) In a large saucepan, combine pasta sauce, onion, garlic & seasonings; bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Pour over meatballs; sprinkle with cheese. Bake 15-20 minutes longer or until cheese is lightly browned.

Prep: 45 minutes

Bake: 30 minutes

Makes: 10 servings