Baked Spaghetti Recipe: A Simple and Satisfying Meal for the Whole Family

Are you looking for a comforting, easy-to-make dish that will please the whole family? Baked spaghetti is your answer! Combining the delicious flavors of pasta, savory tomato sauce, and melted cheese, this dish is a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by everyone, from kids to adults. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or hosting a casual dinner, this baked spaghetti recipe is sure to be a hit.

With a few simple ingredients and just a bit of time in the oven, you can have a dish that feels indulgent but is easy enough to prepare. Plus, it’s versatile—you can customize it with your favorite add-ins like ground beef, sausage, or even veggies. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients for Baked Spaghetti

Here’s what you’ll need for a delicious batch of baked spaghetti:

• 1 lb spaghetti pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage, or a combination)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or homemade sauce if preferred)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Start by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. Toss the pasta with a little olive oil to prevent it from sticking.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or sausage) and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Seasoning

Once the meat is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until the onion is soft and fragrant. Stir in the marinara sauce, dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the sauce mixture. Add the ricotta cheese and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese to the bowl. Mix everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce and cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Spaghetti

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.

Step 6: Finish the Dish

After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the spaghetti is done baking, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Recipe Notes

• Meat Options: Feel free to substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or vegetarian crumbles if you prefer a lighter or meatless version.
• Cheese Alternatives: If you prefer, you can use ricotta cheese or cottage cheese as a substitute. Some people also enjoy adding Parmesan to the ricotta mix for an extra cheesy boost.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little extra kick, or throw in some sautéed bell peppers and mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat altogether and add extra veggies like spinach, zucchini, or eggplant to make it a vegetarian meal.

Time and Serving

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Leftover baked spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, let the dish cool completely and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 750mg

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and will vary based on ingredients used.)

Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: It’s important to cook the pasta just until it’s al dente. Overcooking the pasta can result in a mushy final dish. The pasta will continue cooking in the oven, so don’t worry about it being fully done during the boiling process.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: If possible, use fresh garlic and herbs like basil and parsley to give the dish a more vibrant flavor. Fresh ingredients can really make a difference in a baked pasta dish.
• Add a Crispy Topping: For extra texture, sprinkle some bread crumbs on top before baking. It adds a delightful crunch and makes the dish even more comforting.

How to Serve Baked Spaghetti

This baked spaghetti is a meal on its own, but here are a few ideas for serving it:

• With a Side Salad: Pair it with a fresh salad dressed with a balsamic vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese and pasta.
• Garlic Bread: Serve it with some warm, crispy garlic bread for a perfect Italian-inspired meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: If you want to add more vegetables to the dish, serve it with a side of roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli.

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Skillet for cooking meat and sauce
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula for mixing
• Measuring cups and spoons

FAQs About Baked Spaghetti

Conclusion

This baked spaghetti recipe is everything you want in a hearty meal—rich, cheesy, and comforting, but without spending hours in the kitchen. Try it tonight and let it become a staple in your dinner rotation.