How to Make Baked Spaghetti A Delicious Twist on a Classic Pasta Dish

Introduction

Baked spaghetti is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the best elements of traditional spaghetti and lasagna. With gooey melted cheese, savory pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, it's a family-friendly meal perfect for weeknights or gatherings. In this article, we'll walk you through a classic baked spaghetti recipe, provide tips for customization, and offer suggestions for serving.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces spaghetti noodles

• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara or spaghetti sauce

• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes (optional)

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Chopped parsley or basil (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

3. Cook the Spaghetti

4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti noodles and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

5. Prepare the Meat Sauce

6. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add the ground beef or sausage, breaking it up as it browns. Once the meat is cooked through, drain excess fat if necessary.

7. Add Sauce and Seasonings

8. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Pour in the marinara sauce and diced tomatoes (if using), then add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5–10 minutes, letting the flavors meld.

9. Combine Pasta and Sauce

10. Add the drained spaghetti to the meat sauce, tossing to coat the noodles evenly.

11. Assemble the Casserole

12. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the spaghetti mixture in the dish. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Add the remaining spaghetti, then top with the rest of the cheeses.

13. Bake

14. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

15. Garnish and Serve

16. Allow the baked spaghetti to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve warm.

Tips and Variations

• For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.

• Add a layer of ricotta or cottage cheese between the spaghetti layers for a creamier texture.

• Use whole-wheat or gluten-free spaghetti if desired.

• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

• Spice it up with red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.

Serving Suggestions

Baked spaghetti pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad and garlic bread. It's also great for meal prep, as leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated for up to three days.

Conclusion

Baked spaghetti is a satisfying and versatile dish that's sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, this hearty casserole is perfect for sharing with family and friends. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious results!