Name: Delicious Baked Spaghetti: A Family Favorite Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb spaghetti; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 24 oz marinara or spaghetti sauce; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning (optional); 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese (optional); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped

Baked Spaghetti is a comforting and delightful dish that every family will love. Imagine tender spaghetti noodles enveloped in a rich, hearty meat sauce, all topped with gooey, melted cheese. This easy baked spaghetti recipe is perfect for any night of the week, especially when you want to serve something delicious yet simple. It transforms into a sliceable casserole that not only pleases the palate but is also ideal for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. Let’s dive into what makes this dish a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Spaghetti

There are countless reasons to adore this Baked Spaghetti. First, it’s an Easy Baked Spaghetti Meal that can be prepared in under an hour. Second, it combines the classic flavors of Italian cuisine with a unique twist. This oven-baked spaghetti dish is perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for gatherings. The cheesy baked spaghetti layers are satisfying and comforting, making it a go-to recipe for families. It’s also budget-friendly, ensuring you can feed a crowd without breaking the bank. The versatility of this dish allows for vegetarian baked spaghetti options or variations with sausage, appealing to diverse tastes. And, it makes for fantastic leftovers, perfect for quick lunches!

Delicious Baked Spaghetti: A Family Favorite Recipe - Baked Spaghetti - main visual representation

Ingredients for Baked Spaghetti

Gather these items:

1 lb spaghetti
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
24 oz marinara or spaghetti sauce
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese (optional)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped

How to Make Baked Spaghetti Step-by-Step

Step 1: Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook spaghetti 1-2 minutes less than package instructions for al dente. Drain and drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onion in olive oil until translucent. Add garlic and cook briefly. Add ground beef, break apart, and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.
Step 3: Stir in marinara sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 4: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, half of the meat sauce, ricotta (if using), half of the mozzarella, and Parmesan. Mix well.
Step 5: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish. Layer half of the spaghetti mixture, then some sauce and cheese. Repeat for a second layer. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
Step 6: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden. Optionally, broil for 2-3 minutes for a crispy top.
Step 7: Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve warm.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Baked Spaghetti

Keep these in mind:

Use high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor.
Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.
Always let the baked spaghetti rest before cutting; it helps in slicing and serving.
For a creamier dish, layer in ricotta cheese.
This dish is perfect for freezing; just bake it without cheese, cool, and then freeze. Add cheese before baking from frozen.

Best Ways to Serve Baked Spaghetti

For an impressive presentation, serve your Baked Spaghetti Casserole with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad. Pair it with a light red wine for adults or sparkling water for the kids. You can also top it with extra fresh herbs for a burst of flavor. Another great idea is to serve it with a side of roasted vegetables, making it not only a delicious meal but a colorful one as well.

How to Store and Reheat Baked Spaghetti

After enjoying this delicious meal, you might have some leftovers. Simply cover the baked spaghetti with foil or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It can last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge. To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. This makes it an excellent option for quick meal prep or lunches!

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Spaghetti

What’s the secret to perfect Baked Spaghetti?

The secret lies in cooking the spaghetti al dente and letting the dish rest before serving. This ensures that the flavors meld beautifully and the slices hold together. Using a mix of quality cheeses also elevates the dish!

Can I make Baked Spaghetti ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Baked Spaghetti?

Avoid overcooking the spaghetti and make sure to let it rest after baking. Ensure that you balance the sauce and cheese; too much sauce can make it soggy, while too little can dry it out.

Variations of Baked Spaghetti You Can Try

There are many delicious variations to explore with your Baked Spaghetti. You can opt for a vegetarian baked spaghetti option by replacing ground beef with sautéed mushrooms and spinach. For a richer flavor, try adding Italian sausage. If you prefer a creamy texture, consider incorporating a layer of béchamel sauce or additional ricotta cheese. Finally, experiment with different types of cheese like provolone or gouda for a unique twist!

For more tips on cooking pasta, check out this helpful guide. If you’re interested in meal prepping, you might find this article on meal prep useful. And for a deeper dive into Italian cuisine, visit this resource.