Description
Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients
12 oz spaghetti
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil (for garnish)
Directions
Cook the Spaghetti: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Mix the Ricotta: In a large bowl, mix ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
Combine: Add the cooked spaghetti to the ricotta mixture and toss to coat evenly.
Assemble: In a greased baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Add the spaghetti mixture, top with the remaining marinara sauce, and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot. Perfect for a cozy family dinner!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Calories: ~350 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep & Cook Pasta: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 12 oz spaghetti to al dente. Drain, but do not rinse, to help the sauce adhere.
2. Create Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, thoroughly combine 1 cup ricotta, 1/2 cup of the mozzarella, 1/4 cup Parmesan, 1 beaten egg, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp oregano, 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional), salt, and pepper.
3. Combine Pasta & Filling: Add the drained, still-warm spaghetti to the cheese mixture. Use tongs to toss and coat every strand evenly.
4. Layer the Casserole: In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread 1/2 cup of the marinara sauce. Add the coated spaghetti, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining 1.5 cups of sauce, then sprinkle the last 1/2 cup of mozzarella over everything.
5. Bake to Perfection: Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and has golden spots.
6. Rest & Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking. This allows it to set for cleaner slices. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a simple roasted vegetable medley (like broccoli or zucchini) are also excellent sides. For a crowd, double the recipe and bake in two dishes.
How-to Summary
In short: Cook spaghetti al dente. Mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and seasonings. Toss spaghetti in the cheese mixture. Layer in a dish with marinara sauce. Top with more sauce and mozzarella. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I use a different pasta? Absolutely. Penne, rigatoni, or fusilli work great. The key is using a shape that holds the cheese and sauce well.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish, covered with foil, in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Can I substitute cottage cheese for ricotta? Yes, small-curd cottage cheese is a common substitute. For a smoother texture, you can blend it first.
Is the egg necessary? The egg acts as a binder, helping the cheese mixture hold together during baking. For an egg-free version, you can omit it, but the filling may be slightly looser.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cook spaghetti only to al dente. It will continue to soften in the oven, and mushy pasta ruins the texture.
- Skipping the Egg: Not mixing the egg thoroughly into the ricotta can lead to unappetizing cooked egg streaks in your filling.
- Forgetting to Grease the Dish: Always grease your baking dish to prevent sticking and make serving much easier.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Let the ricotta and egg sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before mixing for a smoother, more even blend.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, transforming simple ingredients into a creamy, saucy, and incredibly satisfying family meal. Its straightforward preparation and forgiving nature make it perfect for both weeknight dinners and potluck gatherings. By following this enhanced guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’re guaranteed a deliciously golden, crowd-pleasing dish every single time.