Baked Spaghetti Recipe

Looking for an easy baked spaghetti recipe? This cheesy pasta bake is a perfect family dinner idea that’s quick, delicious, and ideal for busy weeknights. With layers of tender spaghetti, rich marinara sauce, savory ground beef, and melty mozzarella, this comforting dish will quickly become a household favorite. Great for meal prep, freezer-friendly, and versatile with gluten-free or vegetarian options.

Ingredients

• 3/4 lb. spaghetti
• 1 lb. ground beef (or substitute with ground sausage or turkey)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp seasoned salt
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 32 oz. marinara sauce
• 8 oz. ricotta cheese (approximately 1 cup)
• 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
• 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
• 4 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. While waiting for the water to boil and the pasta to cook, begin preparing the sauce.
2. Cook the Meat: In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onions, bell peppers, seasoned salt, and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Prepare the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and cream cheese. Let the mixture heat through, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet. Use kitchen tongs to gently toss the pasta with the sauce until fully combined. The mixture will be very saucy but will thicken as it bakes.
6. Layer and Assemble: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the spaghetti mixture in the dish and top with 2 cups of shredded mozzarella. Add the remaining spaghetti on top and finish with the remaining mozzarella.
7. Bake: If serving immediately, bake the dish uncovered for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is hot and melted. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
8. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with Garlic Bread with Cheese or your favorite side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for feeding a crowd.
• Packed with comforting flavors and cheesy goodness.
• Easy to make ahead and freeze for busy nights.
• Versatile with options for substitutions and variations.

Tips

• Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting and flavor.
• Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
• For a crispier top, broil the dish for 1-2 minutes after baking.

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Add chopped spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for added veggies.
• Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
• Experiment with different cheeses, such as Gouda or Fontina, for a unique twist.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
2. Can I freeze baked spaghetti? Absolutely. Assemble the dish and freeze it unbaked for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 20-25 minutes to the baking time.
3. How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad and a light vinaigrette.
• Serve alongside crusty garlic bread or breadsticks.
• Add a side of roasted or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.