Baked spaghetti casserole is a comforting, cheesy dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It combines spaghetti, ground beef, marinara sauce, and plenty of melted cheese, all baked together for a warm, satisfying meal.
The layers of pasta and sauce are easy to prepare, making this recipe a go-to for busy weeknights or when you want to make something hearty without too much fuss. Whether you're feeding a crowd or looking for leftovers to enjoy later, this baked spaghetti casserole is a delicious and easy choice.
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Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because it’s simple and combines classic ingredients like pasta, meat, and cheese that everyone loves. The spaghetti is cooked to perfection, and the ground beef adds a rich, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the tangy marinara sauce. The layers of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese melt into a gooey, golden topping that makes the casserole irresistible.
You should make this recipe because it’s versatile, family-friendly, and great for meal prep. You can customize it by adding extra vegetables or using a different type of protein, like sausage or ground turkey. Plus, it’s easy to store and reheat, making it a perfect option for leftovers. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a potluck, this baked spaghetti casserole will always be a hit!
Ingredients
Spaghetti: The base of the casserole. You can substitute with any type of pasta like penne or rotini.
Ground Beef: Adds protein and heartiness to the dish. You can use ground turkey or sausage as a substitute.
Marinara Sauce: Coats the spaghetti and gives it a rich tomato flavor. You can use homemade or store-bought sauce.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melts on top for a gooey, cheesy finish. You can substitute with cheddar or a mix of cheeses.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, salty flavor. You can skip it or use more mozzarella if you prefer a milder taste.
Tips
- Cook the spaghetti slightly al dente since it will bake in the oven.
- Drain the ground beef well to avoid excess grease in the casserole.
- Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for more flavor and nutrition.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to make it easier to slice.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for later.
How to Serve
Baked spaghetti casserole is a comforting, filling dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. The layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese come together for a warm, satisfying meal that everyone will love. You can serve it as a main course with a side of vegetables or a simple salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
- Serve with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal.
- Pair with roasted vegetables like zucchini or broccoli for extra nutrition.
- Enjoy with a glass of red wine for a cozy dinner.
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Baked Spaghetti Casserole
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned. Drain the excess fat.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked spaghetti, followed by half of the meat sauce, and sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
• Drain the ground beef well to avoid excess grease in the casserole.
• Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for more flavor and nutrition.
• Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to make it easier to slice.
• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for later.
what a good comfort food...