Baked Spaghetti is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the familiarity of spaghetti with the homey feel of a baked casserole. It’s a great way to enjoy a twist on traditional spaghetti, ideal for family dinners or potluck gatherings.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened.
- Add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper (and red pepper flakes if using). Simmer for about 10 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg.
- Layer half of the cooked spaghetti in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the ricotta cheese mixture over the spaghetti.
- Add the remaining spaghetti on top of the ricotta layer.
- Pour the meat sauce evenly over the spaghetti.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the baked spaghetti cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 450-500
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 25g
Prep and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Servings
- Serves: 6-8
Baked Spaghetti is a delightful and filling meal that combines the best aspects of spaghetti and a cheesy baked casserole. It’s perfect for a comforting dinner and is always a hit with both kids and adults. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal!
