The Perfect Baked Spaghetti Recipe

Introduction to Baked Spaghetti

Spaghetti is a classic dish that has been a staple in homes across the world.

Its simplicity, versatility, and comforting flavors make it a favorite for family dinners, gatherings, and even special occasions.

However, as much as we love the traditional spaghetti with marinara sauce, sometimes it’s fun to take this beloved dish to the next level.

Enter baked spaghetti—a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying variation that combines the best of spaghetti and lasagna into one delicious casserole.

Baked spaghetti offers the same comforting flavors of the original dish but with a crispy, cheesy top layer that adds a delightful texture.

This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prep, as it reheats beautifully and even tastes better the next day.

The Perfect Baked Spaghetti Recipe

Baked spaghetti is a simple yet crowd-pleasing dish that combines the rich, savory flavors of a traditional spaghetti dinner with the convenience and satisfaction of a casserole.

Here’s how you can make this delicious meal at home:

The Perfect Baked Spaghetti Recipe

Ingredients:

12 oz (340g) spaghetti

1 lb (450g) ground beef

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

24 oz (680g) marinara sauce

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups ricotta or cottage cheese

1 egg, beaten

Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Preheat your oven: to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the meat sauce: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent. Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Mix the cheeses: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta or cottage cheese with the beaten egg and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Mix until well combined.

Assemble the casserole: In a large baking dish, layer half of the cooked spaghetti, spreading it out evenly. Add half of the meat sauce over the spaghetti. Spread the cheese mixture over the meat sauce layer, and then top with the remaining spaghetti. Pour the rest of the meat sauce over the top.

Add the cheese topping: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the casserole.

Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve: Let the baked spaghetti cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired, and enjoy!

Conclusion

Baked spaghetti is more than just a variation of the classic spaghetti—it’s a comfort food that combines the rich, savory flavors of spaghetti with the cheesy goodness of lasagna, all baked into a delicious casserole.

This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or whenever you need to feed a crowd.

The combination of layers—tender spaghetti, flavorful meat sauce, and creamy cheese—creates a satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Plus, it’s an excellent make-ahead dish that you can prepare in advance and simply pop into the oven when you’re ready to eat.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, baked spaghetti is a foolproof recipe that is sure to become a family favorite.

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