Print

Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines all the best flavors of spaghetti in one easy-to-make casserole. Layered with savory tomato sauce, melted cheese, and a flavorful meat or veggie filling, it’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping.

Ingredients

  1. 12 oz spaghetti (uncooked)
    1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
    1 onion, chopped
    2 garlic cloves, minced
    1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or homemade tomato sauce)
    1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional, for extra texture)
    1 tsp dried basil
    1 tsp dried oregano
    1/2 tsp salt
    1/2 tsp black pepper
    1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
    1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    1 cup ricotta cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
    1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
    Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
  3. Stir in marinara sauce, diced tomatoes (if using), basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the sauce mixture, making sure the pasta is well-coated. If using ricotta cheese, mix it into the pasta and sauce for extra creaminess.
  5. Transfer the spaghetti mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

  1. Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach, or use a plant-based meat alternative.
  2. Extra Cheesy: Add an additional layer of mozzarella or provolone for extra cheesiness.
  3. Spicy: For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
  4. Meatballs: Instead of ground beef, use cooked meatballs for a heartier dish.
  5. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
  6. Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/baked-spaghetti-casserole/