Baked spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food, bursting with flavors that dance on your palate and a cheesy, gooey texture that feels like a warm hug. Imagine diving into a bubbling casserole dish, where spaghetti meets rich sauce and gooey cheese in a heavenly embrace. sweet corn spoonbread casserole It’s like an Italian love story right on your dinner table, inviting everyone to gather around and savor every bite. For more inspiration, check out this Delicious Amish Country Casserole recipe.
This dish isn’t just for fancy dinner parties or holiday feasts; it’s perfect for family game nights, casual get-togethers, or even those lazy Sunday afternoons when you want something delicious without much fuss. Trust me, once you whip up this baked spaghetti, it will become a cherished memory in your kitchen repertoire.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Baked spaghetti is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Its rich flavor profile brings together savory meats and tangy sauce that everyone will adore.
- The golden-brown cheese topping not only looks amazing but also enhances the dish’s comforting appeal.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate various ingredients based on your taste or pantry staples.
Ingredients for baked spaghetti
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Spaghetti: Use about 12 ounces of dry spaghetti for the perfect base that holds onto the sauce beautifully.
- Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef (about 1 pound) to keep things hearty without being overly greasy.
- Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite jarred marinara sauce (about 24 ounces) or make your own for a personal touch.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: A generous 2 cups of mozzarella ensures that cheesy goodness everyone loves!
- Parmesan Cheese: Adding about half a cup of grated Parmesan enriches the flavor and adds a delightful crust.
For the Seasonings:
- Italian Seasoning: Use about 1 tablespoon to bring out those classic Italian flavors in your dish.
- Garlic Powder: A teaspoon adds depth and richness to the overall taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make baked spaghetti
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). It’s important to get the oven nice and hot so that your baked spaghetti cooks evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dry spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually around eight minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Brown the Meat
In a large skillet over medium heat, add your ground beef. Cook it until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks—this should take about five minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In that same skillet with your cooked meat, pour in the marinara sauce along with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 5: Layer It Up
In a large baking dish (9×13 inches works great), layer half of your cooked spaghetti on the bottom. Top with half of the meat sauce mixture followed by one cup of mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers—spaghetti, meat sauce, then finish with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 6: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to avoid burning that glorious cheese) and bake for about 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional ten minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Serve this cheesy dream right from the oven! Transfer generous portions onto plates and maybe sprinkle some fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy every mouthful of this baked spaghetti masterpiece!
You Must Know
- This baked spaghetti dish combines rich flavors and cheesy goodness, making it a family favorite.
- It’s easy to whip up and perfect for busy weeknights.
- The blend of spices and textures makes it a delight on any dinner table.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking your spaghetti until al dente, while simultaneously preparing the sauce on the stove. Once the pasta is done, combine everything in a baking dish, layer with cheese, and bake until bubbly perfection. Efficiency makes all the difference here. For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or even toss in some sautéed veggies. Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for extra flavor. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add that perfect kick if you’re feeling adventurous.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover baked spaghetti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always salt your pasta water generously; this enhances flavor from the start.
- Bake your spaghetti uncovered for that perfect cheesy crust everyone loves.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving; this helps with slicing and serving.
Sometimes I make baked spaghetti just to see my kids’ faces light up; it’s their ultimate comfort food! Their giggles and satisfied smiles make all the effort worthwhile.
FAQs :
What ingredients are needed for baked spaghetti?
To make a delicious baked spaghetti, you will need essential ingredients like spaghetti noodles, marinara sauce, ground beef or Italian sausage, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, and Italian seasoning. You can also add vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms if you like. Make sure to have salt and pepper on hand for seasoning. This combination of ingredients creates a rich flavor that enhances the overall dish.
How long should I bake spaghetti?
Baked spaghetti typically requires about 25 to 30 minutes in a preheated oven set at 350°F (175°C). This baking time allows the flavors to meld together while the cheeses melt and become bubbly. If you’re using leftovers or a frozen version, you may need to adjust the time accordingly. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid overcooking.
Can baked spaghetti be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! Baked spaghetti is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze it after assembling for up to three months. Just remember to adjust the baking time if cooking from frozen. This makes it convenient for busy weeknights when you want a comforting meal ready quickly.
What sides pair well with baked spaghetti?
Baked spaghetti pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. A fresh Caesar salad adds a nice crunch and balances out the meal’s richness. Garlic bread is another classic choice, perfect for soaking up extra sauce. Roasted vegetables or a simple green salad also complement baked spaghetti beautifully, providing both color and nutrition to your meal.
Conclusion for baked spaghetti :
In conclusion, baked spaghetti is a versatile and hearty dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any table. With simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, you can create a masterpiece that your family will love. Whether enjoyed fresh or prepared ahead of time, this recipe easily adapts to your needs. buffalo chicken pasta Remember to experiment with different toppings or sides to enhance your dining experience even further! Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delicious baked spaghetti!
Baked Spaghetti
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Baked spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food, combining perfectly cooked pasta with a rich marinara sauce and layers of melty cheese. This easy recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings, promising to warm hearts and satisfy taste buds. With its gooey texture and delightful flavors, baked spaghetti invites everyone to dig in and enjoy the cozy embrace of this classic dish.
Ingredients
- 12 oz dry spaghetti
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente (about 8 minutes); drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked; drain excess fat.
- Add marinara sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning to the meat; stir to combine.
- In a 9×13 baking dish, layer half of the spaghetti, half of the meat sauce, and one cup of mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
