Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
If you love classic Italian flavors and crave a dish that’s hearty, cheesy, and comforting, this Baked Spaghetti Casserole is the recipe you need. Combining tender spaghetti, savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and layers of gooey melted cheese, this casserole is a delicious twist on traditional spaghetti. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, it’s a meal that’s easy to prepare, feeds a crowd, and satisfies every time.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Spaghetti Casserole
This casserole takes all the best elements of spaghetti and turns them into a baked, cheesy masterpiece. Here’s why it’s sure to become a favorite:
- Cheesy Perfection: With layers of mozzarella and Parmesan, every bite is packed with melty, cheesy goodness.
- Rich and Hearty: The savory meat sauce and creamy ricotta mixture add depth and comfort to the dish.
- Perfect for Gatherings: This casserole is great for feeding a crowd and can be made ahead for stress-free entertaining.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the seasonings, cheese, or even add vegetables for a personal touch.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe uses simple techniques to build layers of flavor and texture. The ground beef and onion are cooked together to create a savory base for the marinara sauce, while garlic and Italian seasoning add an aromatic depth. The ricotta mixture, combined with egg and mozzarella, creates a creamy filling that holds the layers together and ensures a rich, cheesy bite in every forkful. Baking the casserole melds the flavors, and the top layer of bubbly cheese adds the perfect finishing touch.
Ingredients
To make this delicious baked spaghetti casserole, you’ll need:
- 12 oz spaghetti: The foundation of the dish, perfect for layering and soaking up the sauce.
- 1 lb ground beef: Adds a hearty, savory flavor.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Enhances the meat sauce with aromatic depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a classic Italian flavor.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: A rich, tomato-based sauce to coat the spaghetti and meat.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Brings a blend of herbs for authentic flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing the flavors.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess to the casserole.
- 1 large egg: Helps bind the ricotta mixture for a sturdy, layered dish.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided): Melts beautifully, creating a gooey texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory note.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish.
How to Make Baked Spaghetti Casserole
Follow these steps to create a comforting, cheesy baked spaghetti casserole:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
2. Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Cooking it al dente ensures it holds up well during baking.
3. Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, then remove it from the heat.
4. Make the Ricotta Mixture
In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until smooth and well blended. This creamy mixture will create the perfect middle layer for your casserole.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Start by spreading half of the cooked spaghetti into the greased baking dish. Top with half of the meat sauce, then dollop and spread half of the ricotta mixture over the sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti, meat sauce, and ricotta mixture. Finish by spreading the rest of the meat sauce on top.
6. Add the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and the Parmesan cheese evenly over the casserole. This cheesy topping will melt into a bubbly, golden layer during baking.
7. Bake the Casserole
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
8. Garnish and Serve
Once baked, let the casserole rest for a few minutes to set. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Baked Spaghetti Casserole
- Use High-Quality Marinara Sauce: A good marinara sauce enhances the flavor of the entire dish. Look for one with natural ingredients and minimal additives.
- Don’t Overcook the Spaghetti: Slightly undercooking the pasta ensures it won’t become too soft after baking.
- Let the Casserole Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest after baking makes it easier to slice and serve, keeping the layers intact.
- Customize the Layers: Add sautéed vegetables, such as mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers, for added flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This baked spaghetti casserole pairs beautifully with classic Italian sides for a complete meal:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the extra sauce and cheese.
- Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with vinaigrette adds a refreshing balance to the rich casserole.
- Steamed Vegetables: Serve with broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for added nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
Q: Can I freeze baked spaghetti casserole?
A: Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
A: Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well as a lighter alternative to beef.
Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Yes! Omit the ground beef and add sautéed vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant, to the marinara sauce.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Q: Can I substitute cottage cheese for ricotta?
A: Yes, cottage cheese can be used in place of ricotta for a lighter texture.
Q: How do I prevent the cheese from burning?
A: Cover the casserole with foil during the first half of baking, then remove it to allow the cheese to brown.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, simply use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together the best of Italian flavors in a rich, cheesy casserole. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or potlucks, it’s a crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor.
Serve it with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete Italian-inspired meal, and enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness of this baked classic. Whether you’re hosting guests or simply craving something cozy, this baked spaghetti casserole is guaranteed to be a hit at the table!
Baked Spaghetti Casserole: A Cheesy, Comforting Italian Delight
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6
Description
This baked spaghetti casserole layers tender pasta with a savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta mixture, and gooey melted cheese for a comforting Italian-inspired dish. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it’s a crowd-pleasing classic!
Ingredients
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 large egg
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
5. In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
6. In the baking dish, layer half of the cooked spaghetti, half of the meat sauce, and half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat layers, ending with a final layer of meat sauce on top.
7. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
### Tip:
Serve with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal.
### Cooking Tip:
Mixing the egg into the ricotta helps bind the layers together, making for easier slicing.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 35