Here’s a Baked Spaghetti recipe that’s easy to make and perfect for a comforting family dinner!
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces spaghetti (or any pasta of your choice)
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey, sausage, or a mix)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce (or homemade tomato sauce)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the spaghetti:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes).
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Prepare the meat sauce:
- While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned (about 6-8 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan with the beef and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer the sauce on low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Prepare the cheese mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and the beaten egg. Stir until everything is well combined.
4. Assemble the baked spaghetti:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large baking dish (9×13 inches), spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom.
- Add half of the cooked spaghetti on top of the sauce, then spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the spaghetti. Top with half of the remaining meat sauce and half of the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Garnish and serve:
- Remove the baked spaghetti from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Tips:
- For extra flavor: Add 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the cheese mixture.
- Make ahead: You can prepare this dish up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Vegetarian version: Skip the meat and use extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for a veggie-loaded baked spaghetti.
- Make it creamy: For a creamier version, mix in a bit of heavy cream or milk into the ricotta mixture.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a simple green salad or garlic bread to complete the meal!
Enjoy your homemade, cheesy, and comforting Baked Spaghetti!