Baked Spaghetti with Cheese

Introduction:

When it comes to comfort food, baked spaghetti with cheese is a dish that never disappoints.

This hearty and satisfying meal combines the classic flavors of Italian pasta with the rich, gooey goodness of melted cheese, making it a favorite for both kids and adults alike.

Whether you’re preparing dinner for a busy weeknight or hosting a casual gathering with friends, this dish is a go-to recipe that’s simple to make yet packed with flavor.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to create the perfect baked spaghetti with cheese.

From selecting the right ingredients to mastering the baking process, you’ll find all the tips and tricks needed to achieve a dish that’s both delicious and comforting.

Baked Spaghetti with Cheese: A Comforting, Cheesy Delight

Ingredients:

For the Spaghetti:

12 oz spaghetti

1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)

1 medium onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

24 oz marinara or pasta sauce

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Sauce:

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

2 cups heavy cream or whole milk

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Cook the Spaghetti:

Begin by cooking the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Prepare the Meat Sauce (Optional):

If you’re using ground beef or Italian sausage, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meat and cook until it is browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in the marinara or pasta sauce, along with the oregano and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce:

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture is bubbly and slightly golden.

Gradually whisk in the heavy cream or milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded mozzarella cheese, the cheddar cheese, and the Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Dish:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce (if using). Toss until the spaghetti is evenly coated with the sauce.

Transfer the spaghetti mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the top, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top for an extra cheesy finish.

Bake the Spaghetti:

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden on top.

If you like a crispier top, you can broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Serve and Enjoy:

Remove the baked spaghetti from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Serve the spaghetti with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Conclusion:

Baked spaghetti with cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich, familiar flavors of pasta and cheese in one delicious dish.

It’s a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences, whether you choose to include meat, add extra veggies, or experiment with different types of cheese.

The result is always a warm, cheesy, and deeply satisfying meal that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need to put together a quick and hearty meal, but it’s also impressive enough to serve when entertaining guests.

With its golden, bubbly cheese topping and savory, flavorful interior, baked spaghetti with cheese is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.

So next time you’re in the mood for something comforting and delicious, give this recipe a try and enjoy the simple pleasures of a home-cooked meal.

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