Description
Baked Spaghetti with Cheese
Ingredients:
8 oz spaghetti
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil, chopped for garnish
Instructions:
Cook the Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Mix the Cheese Filling: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Combine with Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked spaghetti with the marinara sauce. Add the cheese mixture and mix until the pasta is well coated.
Assemble the Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the spaghetti mixture into a baking dish and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped basil on top for garnish. Serve hot and enjoy this cheesy, comforting dish!
This baked spaghetti is a cheesy delight that’s sure to satisfy! Perfect for a cozy dinner.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect baked spaghetti every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Cook the spaghetti to al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. While the pasta cooks, prepare the cheese filling by thoroughly blending the ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and seasonings. After draining the pasta, return it to the warm pot. Immediately toss it with the marinara sauce to coat. Then, gently fold in the cheese mixture until evenly distributed. Transfer the combined pasta to your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Finally, top with the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese for a golden, bubbly crust.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish is a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides. For a complete Italian dinner, serve it alongside a crisp Caesar salad and warm garlic bread. To lighten the meal, offer a fresh arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette. It also makes an excellent potluck or party dish—simply bake it in a disposable foil pan for easy transport. For a special touch, drizzle a little high-quality olive oil over each portion just before serving.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Cook spaghetti al dente. Mix ricotta, partial mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and herbs. Toss pasta with sauce, then fold in cheese mix. Top with remaining mozzarella. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this baked spaghetti ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the dish completely, 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. Rigatoni, penne, or fusilli are excellent alternatives that hold sauce and cheese well.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or cover the baking dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Can I add protein to this recipe? Easily. Brown 1/2 pound of Italian sausage or ground beef, drain the fat, and mix it in with the marinara sauce.
My ricotta mixture seems runny. What went wrong? This can happen if the egg is very large or the ricotta is particularly wet. Draining the ricotta in a fine-mesh strainer for 15 minutes before using can help prevent a soggy bake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid overcooking the pasta initially. Mushy spaghetti will become too soft after baking.
- Do not skip the egg. It acts as a binder, holding the creamy cheese filling together.
- Ensure your baking dish is the right size. A dish that’s too deep will result in undercooked, steaming pasta, while one too shallow can lead to dried-out edges.
- Don’t forget to season the cheese mixture adequately. Taste it before mixing with the pasta.
Conclusion
This Baked Spaghetti with Cheese transforms a simple weeknight staple into a decadent, crowd-pleasing casserole. The layers of pasta, rich marinara, and three creamy cheeses create the ultimate comfort food. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common pitfalls, you can achieve a perfectly baked dish with a gorgeous, golden top. It’s versatile, forgiving, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Enjoy the delicious, cheesy results of your efforts!