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Homemade Cheesy Spaghetti

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This homemade cheesy spaghetti is a hearty baked pasta casserole layered with tender spaghetti, rich meat sauce, and plenty of gooey melted cheese. It’s a comforting family dinner that’s easy to make ahead and perfect for feeding a crowd.

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces spaghetti
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 24 ounces marinara or spaghetti sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 4 ounces cream cheese (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until browned, then drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Add the diced onion and garlic and cook until softened and fragrant.
  5. Stir in the marinara sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
  6. Toss the cooked spaghetti with half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Stir in the cream cheese if using.
  7. Spread half of the spaghetti into the prepared baking dish, top with half of the meat sauce, then repeat the layers.
  8. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
  9. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
  10. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley and serving.

Notes

  • Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • Add mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
  • Ricotta cheese can be layered in for a lasagna-style variation.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat with a splash of marinara sauce to keep the pasta moist.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/homemade-cheesy-spaghetti/