Baked Spaghetti

When you need an easy dinner idea, this Baked Spaghetti recipe is here to save the day! Spaghetti pasta, ground beef, marinara sauce, and cheese are baked together until hot and golden brown on top. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, making it a staple in your home. With its comforting flavors and simple preparation, Baked Spaghetti stands out as a beloved comfort food that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just under 65 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: It’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: You can easily switch up the ingredients based on what you have on hand or personal preferences.
• Leftover Friendly: Baked spaghetti also tastes great the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of beef, cheese, and marinara creates a rich taste that warms the soul.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Baked Spaghetti effortlessly, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Baking dish (13×9-inch)
• Cooking spray
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling the spaghetti to the perfect al dente texture.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning the ground beef and sautéing vegetables quickly.
• Baking dish: Holds all the delicious ingredients together while baking to achieve that golden top.

Ingredients

• 16 ounces spaghetti pasta (white or whole wheat)
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• ¾ cup chopped yellow onion
• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 48 ounces marinara sauce (2 jars, 24 ounces each, or homemade)
• 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
• 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup)
• chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional, for serving)

How to Make Baked Spaghetti

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350° F. This ensures that your baked spaghetti will cook evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Break the spaghetti noodles in half and add them to the boiling water. Cook according to the package directions for al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Onions

Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring often, for about 2 minutes until softened.

Step 4: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet and increase the heat to medium-high. Cook while crumbling the meat until browned. Drain off any excess grease.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Marinara Sauce

Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Then add marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Step 6: Simmer the Sauce

Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 5–10 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 7: Combine with Pasta

Stir in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce mixture. Next, add in cooked spaghetti and mix thoroughly until well combined.

Step 8: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the spaghetti mixture into a greased baking dish (13×9-inch). Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top followed by remaining grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 9: Cover and Bake

Cover with foil (spray underside lightly with cooking spray). Bake in preheated oven for about 30 minutes.

Step 10: Uncover and Finish Baking

Afterward, uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until hot throughout and cheese is golden brown. Serve hot garnished with chopped fresh parsley or basil if desired.

How to Serve Baked Spaghetti

Baked Spaghetti is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, these serving suggestions will make your meal even more enjoyable.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of crisp lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, parmesan cheese, croutons, and Caesar dressing provide a classic pairing.

Add Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter is perfect for mopping up sauce.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Elevate it by adding mozzarella cheese on top for extra indulgence.

Include Steamed Vegetables

• Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition to your plate.
• Green Beans: Sautéed green beans seasoned with olive oil and garlic complement the meal beautifully.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens the plate and adds a burst of flavor.
• Basil Leaves: Whole basil leaves provide an aromatic touch that enhances the dish’s taste.

How to Perfect Baked Spaghetti

To achieve the best results when making Baked Spaghetti, consider these helpful tips for a flavorful and satisfying dish.

• Bold Flavoring: Use fresh herbs or additional spices in your sauce for a richer taste.
• Proper Cooking Time: Ensure you don’t overcook the spaghetti; aim for al dente before baking.
• Moisture Control: If using homemade sauce, ensure it’s not too watery to prevent soggy pasta.
• Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or provolone for unique flavors.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the baked dish sit for 10 minutes after baking for easier serving and better texture.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Spaghetti

Complement your Baked Spaghetti with delicious side dishes that elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Knots: Soft dough twisted into knots, brushed with garlic butter—perfect for dipping!
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze enhance flavors nicely.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted with olive oil add elegance to your table.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Mushroom caps stuffed with cheese and herbs offer a savory bite alongside pasta.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm spaghetti.
6. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cheeses, and vegetables makes for an appealing appetizer option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Baked Spaghetti, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s overall flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your baked spaghetti turns out perfectly.

• Bold Ingredients: Skipping key ingredients like Italian seasoning can lead to bland flavor. Always include seasonings for a well-rounded taste.
• Bold Overcooking Spaghetti: Cooking spaghetti too long before baking makes it mushy. Aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Bold Not Mixing Properly: Failing to mix the sauce with the pasta thoroughly can leave some noodles dry. Make sure all spaghetti is coated evenly with sauce.
• Bold Ignoring Cheese: Using less cheese can result in a lack of creaminess. Don’t skimp on the mozzarella or Parmesan for that delicious cheesy top.
• Bold Baking Time Mistakes: Removing the dish too early or late can affect texture. Follow recommended baking times for the best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• You can store Baked Spaghetti in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
• Use an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent odor absorption.

Freezing Baked Spaghetti

• Baked Spaghetti can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or wrap portions tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.

Reheating Baked Spaghetti

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place single servings in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or marinara sauce to maintain moisture while stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Baked Spaghetti?

Baked Spaghetti is a comforting dish made by combining cooked spaghetti with meat sauce and cheese, then baking until hot and bubbly.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While spaghetti is traditional, you can substitute with penne, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer.

How do I customize my Baked Spaghetti?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, use different meats such as chicken or turkey, or incorporate various cheeses for unique flavors.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply omit the meat and add more vegetables or use lentils as a protein source.

Conclusion

This Baked Spaghetti recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort to any dinner table. It’s versatile enough for customization with different meats and veggies. Give it a try and enjoy this easy family-friendly meal!

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