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Baked Spaghetti Casserole with Meat Sauce and Cheese: A Comforting Italian Classic


  • Author: Kimberly

Description

This baked spaghetti casserole layers tender pasta with a savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella for a comforting, cheesy Italian-inspired dish. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s easy to make and packed with delicious flavors.


Ingredients

– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish


Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
4. Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce.
7. Spread half of the spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with dollops of ricotta cheese, then sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
8. Layer the remaining spaghetti mixture over the cheeses, then top with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
9. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Tip: Serve with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Chef’s Tip: For extra depth, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the meat sauce.