Are you in the mood for a hearty, satisfying, and effortlessly delicious meal? Look no further. Our Baked Spaghetti recipe is a true classic, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving a comforting dish that practically cooks itself.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Dinner Recipe
- Effortless Perfection. Making Baked Spaghetti is a breeze. No need to babysit a pot or pan – assemble, bake, and enjoy. The oven does the work for you!
- Classic Comfort. This dish combines the beloved flavors of spaghetti and gooey cheese in every bite. It’s the ultimate comfort food, bringing warmth and nostalgia to your table.
- Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing. Baked Spaghetti is a crowd-pleaser. Customize it with your favorite ingredients, from veggies to different types of cheese, to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
- Meal Prep Champion. Make a big batch, and you’ll have leftovers that taste even better the next day. Ideal for those busy weeknights when you crave a quick, delicious meal.
Is Baked Spaghetti Better Than Regular?
The choice between Baked Spaghetti and regular spaghetti comes down to personal preference.
Some people enjoy the added richness and textures of baked versions, while others prefer the simplicity and immediacy of traditional spaghetti. It’s a matter of taste, and both options can be delicious in their own right.
How Do You Keep Baked Spaghetti From Drying Out?
To keep baked spaghetti from drying out, you can follow these tips:
- Sufficient Sauce. Ensure that your spaghetti is well-coated in sauce. Use enough sauce to keep the pasta moist, but not swimming in it. The sauce is essential for retaining moisture.
- Cover with Foil. When baking your spaghetti in the oven, start by covering the baking dish with aluminum foil. This helps trap moisture and prevents the top layer from drying out too quickly.
- Don’t Overcook. Avoid overcooking the spaghetti before baking. Undercook it slightly, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This prevents the pasta from becoming too soft and dry during baking.
What Is Baked Spaghetti Made Of?
- Spaghetti– The star of the show, this pasta provides a hearty base.
- Ground Beef– Adds a meaty richness to the sauce.
- Onion and Garlic– The aromatic foundation of the sauce.
- Spaghetti Sauce– Your favorite jar of marinara sauce or homemade sauce if you prefer.
- Italian Seasoning– A blend of herbs that infuse the dish with Italian flair.
- Eggs– They help bind the spaghetti together.
- Parmesan Cheese– For a nutty, savory kick.
- Mozzarella Cheese– The gooey, melty cheese that makes this dish a comfort food classic.
- Fresh Basil– Optional but adds a burst of fresh flavor.
- Salt and Pepper– To season it to perfection.
How To Make Baked Spaghetti
- Cook the Spaghetti. Start by boiling the spaghetti according to the package instructions. This is typically 7-9 minutes. It should be cooked until just al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Brown the Beef. While the pasta cooks, brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re aromatic and the beef is no longer pink.
- Sauce It Up. Add your favorite marinara sauce or a homemade one to the browned beef. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, then let it simmer for a few minutes to develop its flavors.
- Binding Agent. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a portion of shredded mozzarella. This mixture acts as a binder for the spaghetti.
- Layer and Bake. In a greased baking dish, layer the cooked spaghetti, the egg and cheese mixture, and the meat sauce. Repeat for a delightful spaghetti layer cake. Top with more mozzarella cheese.
- Baking Magic. Bake your masterpiece in an oven preheated to 350F for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese turns golden and bubbly, and the spaghetti is tender. The kitchen fills with the aroma of baked goodness.
- Finishing Touch. Before serving, sprinkle fresh basil over the cheesy top if you like a burst of freshness.
Tips And Tricks
To perfect your Baked Spaghetti, consider these tips and tricks:
- Sauce Consistency. If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken up. A thicker sauce ensures your baked dish isn’t too watery.
- Al Dente Pasta. Don’t overcook the spaghetti before baking. It should be slightly undercooked because it continues cooking in the oven.
Variations
Variety is the spice of life, and Baked Spaghetti offers many opportunities for creativity:
- Vegetarian Delight– Skip the meat or replace it with plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian version.
- Mediterranean Twist– Add kalamata olives, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flavor profile.
- Sausage Sensation– Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a zesty kick.
What To Serve With Baked Spaghetti
Wondering what to serve with Baked Spaghetti? Here are some ideas:
- Cauliflower Breadsticks– A classic side that pairs perfectly with saucy pasta dishes.
- Green Salad– A fresh green salad with vinaigrette dressing balances the richness of Baked Spaghetti.
- Roasted Vegetables– Serve with a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers.
How Long Is Leftover Spaghetti Good In The Fridge?
Store leftover Baked Spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days. Reheat portions in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Can You Freeze It?
Yes, Baked Spaghetti freezes wonderfully. Divide it into portions, place in airtight containers, or wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Store in the freezer for 2-3 months, and you’ll have a homemade meal ready when you need it.
More Perfect Pasta Recipes
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Baked Spaghetti Recipe | Easy Baked Spaghetti Casserole
Our Baked Spaghetti recipe is a true classic, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving a comforting dish that practically cooks itself.
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Course: Main Courses
Cuisine: Italian
Keyword: Baked Spaghetti, Baked Spaghetti Recipe, Spaghetti Casserole
Servings: 8 servings
Click on highlighted ingredients or Equipment to see exactly what I use to make this recipe
Instructions
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Cook the Spaghetti. Start by boiling the spaghetti according to the package instructions. This is typically 7-9 minutes. It should be cooked until just al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
-
Brown the Beef. While the pasta cooks, brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re aromatic and the beef is no longer pink.
-
Sauce It Up. Add your favorite marinara sauce or a homemade one to the browned beef. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, then let it simmer for a few minutes to develop its flavors.
-
Binding Agent. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, grated Parmesan cheese, and a portion of shredded mozzarella. This mixture acts as a binder for the spaghetti.
-
Layer and Bake. In a greased baking dish, layer the cooked spaghetti, the egg and cheese mixture, and the meat sauce. Repeat for a delightful spaghetti layer cake. Top with more mozzarella cheese.
-
Baking Magic. Bake your masterpiece in an oven preheated to 350F for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese turns golden and bubbly, and the spaghetti is tender. The kitchen fills with the aroma of baked goodness.
-
Finishing Touch. Before serving, sprinkle fresh basil over the cheesy top if you like a burst of freshness.
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