Description
Cheesy Baked Spaghetti
Ingredients:
1 lb spaghetti
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 jar marinara sauce (about 24 oz)
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Cook the Spaghetti:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Meat Sauce:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to combine the flavors.
Assemble the Baked Spaghetti:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish or individual ramekins, mix the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce.
Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
Bake:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve & Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot. This cheesy, comforting dish is perfect for a family dinner or any occasion!
This baked spaghetti is packed with flavor and loads of cheesy goodness, making it a perfect dish to enjoy with loved ones!
Step-by-Step Guide
For best results, follow this detailed guide. First, ensure your oven rack is in the center position and preheat to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, cook your spaghetti in well-salted water—it should taste like the sea. As the pasta cooks, brown the beef in your skillet until no pink remains, then drain any excess fat. This prevents a greasy sauce. Sauté the onion and garlic in the same skillet until fragrant. Add the marinara and seasonings, simmering to let flavors meld. Combine the drained pasta and sauce in the baking dish, tossing thoroughly so every strand is coated. Layer the cheeses evenly for a perfect golden melt. Bake until the edges are bubbly and the top is spotty brown.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a soft, warm dinner roll is perfect for scooping up any extra sauce. For a complete Italian-inspired meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables like zucchini or broccoli. Leftovers reheat wonderfully for lunch the next day.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Cook pasta al dente. Brown beef, then cook onions and garlic. Add marinara and herbs to simmer. Combine pasta and sauce in a baking dish. Top generously with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this baked spaghetti ahead of time? Absolutely. 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.
What can I use instead of ground beef? Ground turkey, Italian sausage, or a plant-based meat alternative work well. For a vegetarian version, use sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers.
Can I freeze baked spaghetti? Yes. Assemble and bake as directed, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, covered, in the oven.
My cheese is browning too fast. What should I do? If the top is browning before the dish is heated through, loosely tent it with aluminum foil for the remainder of the baking time.
Is it necessary to cook the pasta fully before baking? Yes, cook it to al dente. The pasta will continue to absorb sauce and soften in the oven, so starting with fully cooked pasta prevents it from becoming mushy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the pasta initially, as it will turn mushy after baking. Do not skip draining the excess fat from the cooked beef, as this can make the final dish oily. Ensure your sauce is well-seasoned and simmered before combining with the pasta, as baking mutes flavors. Finally, do not overmix the cheese into the pasta; keep it as a top layer for the ideal gooey, browned finish.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Baked Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food, combining familiar flavors in a crowd-pleasing, easy-to-make casserole. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a reliably delicious dish perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings. Its versatility and make-ahead potential make it a valuable addition to your recipe repertoire. Enjoy the warm, cheesy, and satisfying results!