If you’re on the lookout for a dish that combines simplicity, comfort, and flavor, this baked spaghetti recipe is exactly what you need. It takes all the best elements of classic spaghetti—pasta, marinara sauce, ground beef, and cheese—and transforms them into a cheesy, hearty casserole that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner for the family or cooking ahead for a special gathering, this dish has you covered.
Baked spaghetti is a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with sides like garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables. It’s easy to make, adaptable to your favorite ingredients, and great for leftovers. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and explore all the ways you can customize it to suit your taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something magical about a comforting casserole fresh out of the oven. And with baked spaghetti, you get that irresistible combination of melted cheese, savory marinara sauce, and tender pasta in every bite. Here’s why you’re going to love this recipe:
- Easy to prepare: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can have dinner ready in no time.
- Customizable: This recipe is highly adaptable, so you can switch out the meat, cheese, or even add veggies.
- Perfect for leftovers: Baked spaghetti tastes even better the next day, and it reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or lunch the following day.
- Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or serving a group of friends, this dish will satisfy everyone at the table.
Key Ingredients for Baked Spaghetti
One of the great things about this recipe is that it uses simple ingredients that are easy to find and may already be in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Ingredients:
- 1 lb spaghetti – Any type of spaghetti works well, but you can also substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
- 1 lb ground beef – You can swap this out for ground turkey or Italian sausage if you prefer.
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic gives the dish an aromatic boost that pairs perfectly with the sauce.
- 4 cups marinara sauce – You can use your favorite jarred marinara or make your own. Try this ultimate guide to enhancing marinara sauce for some helpful tips.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella – This provides a stretchy, melty layer of cheesy goodness.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar – Adds a sharp, contrasting flavor that complements the mozzarella.
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan – A nutty, salty cheese that adds richness to the dish.
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning – For an herby flavor boost.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
Optional Add-ins:
- Red pepper flakes – If you like a little kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of heat.
- Spinach or other veggies – For added nutrition, toss in a few handfuls of fresh spinach or other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Ricotta cheese – For an extra creamy layer, spread some ricotta between the pasta and meat sauce.
How to Make Baked Spaghetti
This baked spaghetti recipe is straightforward and perfect for cooks of all skill levels. Follow these steps for a cheesy, hearty dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until it’s al dente—about 2 minutes less than the package directions indicate. This is important because the pasta will continue to cook when it’s baked. Drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture
While the pasta is cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it softens, about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 8-10 minutes.
Once the meat is browned, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano or Italian seasoning to taste.
Step 3: Combine with Marinara Sauce
Pour in the marinara sauce and stir until everything is well combined. Allow the sauce to simmer for 5 minutes so the flavors can meld together. If you’re using store-bought sauce, you can elevate its flavor by following some of the tips for enhancing marinara sauce.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large 9×13 inch baking dish, spread the cooked spaghetti evenly across the bottom. Pour the beef and marinara sauce mixture over the spaghetti, and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Top the spaghetti and sauce mixture with an even layer of shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan cheese. Feel free to add extra cheese if you’re a fan of extra gooey, cheesy goodness. If you like, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone or fontina for different flavors.
Step 6: Bake the Spaghetti
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. This will give the cheese time to melt and get bubbly. For an extra golden and crispy top, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch carefully to avoid burning the cheese.
Step 7: Let It Rest and Serve
Once the dish is out of the oven, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help the casserole set and make it easier to cut and serve neat portions.
Customizations and Variations
One of the best things about baked spaghetti is how adaptable it is. Whether you’re looking for a healthier option, a vegetarian version, or just want to mix things up, there are plenty of ways to customize this recipe to your liking.
Vegetarian Version:
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and add more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. You can also add a layer of ricotta cheese to give the dish a creamy texture.
Meat Lover’s Version:
If you want to beef up this dish even more, consider adding Italian sausage, bacon, or pancetta. These meats add a rich, savory flavor that pairs well with the marinara and cheese. You can also use a mix of ground beef and sausage for added flavor depth.
Gluten-Free Option:
Substitute the regular spaghetti with gluten-free pasta for a dish that’s safe for those with gluten sensitivities. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you use, as gluten-free varieties often cook faster.
Extra Cheesy:
If you can’t get enough cheese, feel free to add extra mozzarella, cheddar, or even provolone. You can also mix ricotta or cream cheese into the sauce to make the dish creamier.
Spicy Variation:
For those who like their pasta dishes with a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the meat sauce. You can also serve the dish with a spicy arrabbiata sauce instead of marinara for an added kick.
Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips
Baked spaghetti is the perfect dish to prepare ahead of time, whether you’re meal prepping for the week or making it for a special event. It’s also a freezer-friendly recipe, so you can always have a hearty meal ready to go in your freezer.
Make-Ahead Instructions:
To make this dish ahead of time, simply follow all the steps up to the point of baking. Once assembled, cover the dish with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven and bake as instructed, adding an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if the dish is cold from the fridge.
Freezing Instructions:
Baked spaghetti freezes beautifully. To freeze, assemble the dish as instructed but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the casserole in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed. If you bake it straight from the freezer, add about 20 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated all the way through.
Storing Leftovers:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place a portion in the microwave or cover the entire dish with foil and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through. For best results, add a little extra marinara sauce to keep the pasta from drying out during reheating.
Serving Suggestions
While baked spaghetti is delicious on its own, pairing it with a few side dishes can elevate the meal and make it even more satisfying. Here are a few ideas for what to serve alongside your baked spaghetti:
- Garlic Bread – You can never go wrong with a side of garlic bread. It’s perfect for soaking up the extra sauce and adds a nice crunchy texture. Check out this simple garlic bread recipe for a quick and delicious option.
- Caesar Salad – A crisp Caesar salad with creamy dressing and crunchy croutons is a great contrast to the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables – Roasted carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts make a great, healthy side dish that complements the flavors of the baked spaghetti.
- Caprese Salad – A fresh Caprese salad with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar adds a light, refreshing element to the meal.
FAQs About Baked Spaghetti
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you make the perfect baked spaghetti:
How long should I bake the spaghetti?
Bake the spaghetti for about 20 minutes, then broil for 2-3 minutes to crisp the top. Be sure to keep an eye on it during broiling to prevent the cheese from burning.
Can I freeze baked spaghetti?
Yes, this dish freezes very well. Assemble it as directed, but don’t bake it. Cover with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking, or bake from frozen, adding 20 minutes to the cooking time.
What other cheeses can I use?
Feel free to use any cheese you love! Provolone, fontina, or gouda can add a unique flavor. Ricotta or cream cheese can also be added for creaminess.
How can I keep my baked spaghetti from drying out?
To prevent dryness, make sure you use enough sauce. If you’re reheating leftovers, add a little extra marinara or a splash of water to keep the pasta moist.
Conclusion
This baked spaghetti recipe is a versatile, family-friendly dish that combines everything you love about spaghetti with the comforting appeal of a baked casserole. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or serving it to guests, this dish is sure to be a hit. It’s easy to prepare, can be customized to suit your tastes, and makes fantastic leftovers.
With its rich, cheesy topping and flavorful sauce, this baked spaghetti will quickly become a go-to recipe in your household. So next time you’re in the mood for comfort food, give this dish a try—you won’t be disappointed!