Baked spaghetti is like a warm hug that wraps itself around your taste buds, with layers of melted cheese, rich sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. The aroma wafts through the house, making it hard to resist the temptation to dive right in before it even hits the table. It’s that one dish that turns a regular weeknight into a cozy family feast or transforms a casual gathering into an unforgettable culinary experience.
Imagine this: it’s a chilly Sunday afternoon, and you’re gathered with family, laughter filling the room as you pull out a bubbling dish of baked spaghetti from the oven. Everyone’s eyes widen in anticipation as they catch a glimpse of the golden cheese crust. This dish isn’t just about filling bellies; it brings people together, creating memories one bite at a time.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Baked spaghetti is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Its cheesy goodness and savory flavor profile will leave everyone craving more
- You can customize ingredients based on personal preferences, ensuring everyone enjoys it
- Plus, the visual appeal of melted cheese and colorful toppings makes it an instant crowd-pleaser
Every time I whip up baked spaghetti, my friends and family can’t help but rave about how delicious it is. Their smiles say it all.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Spaghetti: Choose high-quality pasta for better texture; cook until al dente for that perfect bite.
Ground Beef or Sausage: Use lean meat for less grease; this adds flavor and heartiness.
Marinara Sauce: A good jarred sauce can save time; look for one with no added sugars or preservatives.
Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta for creaminess that enriches the overall dish.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella adds a delightful stretch; sprinkle generously on top.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan to elevate flavors; its nuttiness complements the other cheeses beautifully.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs enhances flavor; use more if you love herby goodness.
Salt and Pepper: Essential basics to season your meat and sauce for optimal taste.
Fresh Basil (optional): Adds freshness when sprinkled on top before serving; don’t skip this for color!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a large pot of salted water and bring it to a boil for cooking the spaghetti until al dente. As the pasta cooks, let’s get those savory scents going.
Cook the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or sausage until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat while enjoying that sizzling sound—it’s music to your ears.
Add Marinara Sauce: Pour in your marinara sauce and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined and let it simmer for about 5 minutes so all those flavors can mingle.
Mix Cheeses Together: In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese with some salt and pepper. This creamy mixture will create delightful pockets of texture within your baked spaghetti.
Combine Everything in Layers: In a large baking dish, layer half of the cooked spaghetti at the bottom. Spoon half of the meat sauce over it followed by dollops of ricotta mix. Repeat these layers until you reach the top—trust me; it looks gorgeous already!
Add Toppings and Bake Away!: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously atop your layered masterpiece and finish with grated Parmesan. Cover with foil to keep all that moisture in during baking. Bake for 25 minutes before removing foil; bake another 10-15 minutes until golden brown on top.
When you pull that bubbly baked spaghetti out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving—it’s hot enough to melt steel! Garnish with fresh basil leaves if you’re feeling fancy.
Now gather everyone around the table and watch their faces light up as they dig into this comforting dish—a true celebration of flavors with every forkful! Enjoy your meal!
You Must Know
- This baked spaghetti recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser, combining the comfort of pasta with gooey cheese
- You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your pantry
- The aroma of bubbling sauce and melted cheese fills your kitchen, making it a delightful experience
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the spaghetti until al dente, sauté the vegetables while preparing your sauce, and finally layer everything with cheese before baking to perfection.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add spinach for a nutritious boost. Experimenting with spices can elevate your flavor game immensely.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect baked spaghetti, ensure your pasta is not overcooked during boiling; it should be firm
- Layering cheese evenly will ensure every bite is cheesy goodness
- Also, allow it to cool slightly before serving to avoid a volcano of sauce
Memories flood back when I think of my family gathered around the table, devouring this baked spaghetti while sharing stories and laughter. Those moments are priceless.
FAQ
Can I use gluten-free pasta for baked spaghetti?
Yes, gluten-free pasta works well; just follow package instructions for cooking time.
How do I make baked spaghetti vegetarian?
Substitute meat with mushrooms or lentils and add extra veggies for flavor.
What’s the best way to freeze baked spaghetti?
Cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months for easy meals later.
Baked Spaghetti
Baked spaghetti is a comforting dish that combines al dente pasta, savory meat sauce, and gooey layers of cheese into a delicious family favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe is easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. Experience the joy of pulling a bubbling dish from the oven, filling your home with irresistible aromas that will have everyone eagerly waiting at the table.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef or sausage (lean)
- 24 oz marinara sauce (no added sugars)
- 15 oz ricotta cheese (whole milk)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente; drain.
- In a skillet, brown ground meat over medium heat; drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with salt and pepper.
- Layer half of the spaghetti in a baking dish, followed by half of the meat sauce and dollops of ricotta. Repeat layers.
- Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses; cover with foil.
- Bake for 25 minutes covered, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving; garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
