Baked Spaghetti
Imagine a dish that effortlessly marries childhood nostalgia with modern-day convenience. Baked spaghetti is not just a meal; it’s comfort food that wraps you in a warm, cheesy embrace with every bite. This heartwarming recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, making it an absolute must-try! With its gooey cheese, tender pasta, and savory meat sauce, this baked spaghetti will take you back to simpler times while satisfying cravings in a flash. Fast, delightful, and undeniably kid-friendly, it’s worth making whenever you desire a satisfying meal that feels like a hug on a plate.
Are you craving that nostalgia-inducing, cheesy delight of baked spaghetti?
Does the thought of a bubbling, cheesy pasta dish evoke fond memories of family dinners around the kitchen table? Perhaps you remember the tantalizing aroma of sauce simmering on the stove or the sound of laughter shared over heaps of spaghetti. What if I told you that you could recreate that experience right in your home, in just about an hour? Would the gooey, melty cheese and the rich, inviting sauce have you dreaming of seconds, or even thirds?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This baked spaghetti isn’t merely a recipe; it’s a culinary experience that brings people together. Here’s why you’ll fall head over heels for this dish:
- Easy Prep: With straightforward steps, this dish can be prepped in under 30 minutes.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for family gatherings or casual dinners, it caters to all palates.
- Minimal Ingredients: Simple pantry staples come together for a rich flavor punch.
- Kid-Friendly: Children adore the familiar flavors that make this dish a family favorite.
- Freezable: Make a double batch and freeze half for those busy weeknights.
Ingredients
To create this mouthwatering baked spaghetti, you will need the following indulgent ingredients:
- Cooking spray
- Kosher salt
- 1 lb. spaghetti
- 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 (28-oz.) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (8-oz.) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella
- 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan
- Chopped fresh parsley, for serving
Each ingredient promises to bring its unique flavor, enhancing the dish to create a feast that’s as inviting as it is delicious.
Timing
Speed is of the essence, and the beauty of baked spaghetti is that it marries a fast, indulgent preparation with wonderful coziness. In less than an hour, you can have a bubbling baking dish ready to serve. Or, if you prefer to take your time, letting the sauce simmer longer can deepen its flavors, transforming this dish into a slow-cooked masterpiece that will fill your home with unforgettable aromas.
Step-by-Step
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
Start by greasing a 13" x 9" baking dish with cooking spray, creating a non-stick barrier that ensures your cheesy pasta goodness won’t cling to the pan.
2. Cook the spaghetti.
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti until al dente, preserving that perfect toothsome bite. Drain it well and set it aside.
3. Prepare the sauce.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions, cooking them until softened and translucent for about 7 minutes. Add the aromatic garlic and let it cook until fragrant for about another minute. Then, combine the ground beef and Italian seasoning; season generously with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, which should take about 8 minutes.
4. Add tomatoes and basil.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce, then fold in the chopped basil. Let this heavenly mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Combine pasta and sauce.
To the skillet, add the cooked spaghetti and toss it gently to combine with the warm sauce, allowing every strand to be enveloped in the rich tomato flavors. Transfer this delicious concoction to the prepared baking dish, smoothing it down evenly.
6. Cheese it up.
Now comes the best part: top the spaghetti with the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, creating a beautiful, cheesy layer that will melt and bubble in the oven.
7. Bake to perfection.
Bake for about 20 minutes, watching as the cheese melts into a glorious, golden layer and the edges begin to crisp. This is your cue to anticipate that first nostalgic bite!
8. Garnish and serve.
Finally, once out of the oven, sprinkle some fresh parsley over the top before serving. This vibrant finish adds not only color but also a fresh burst of flavor.
Nutritional Information
With each serving of this baked spaghetti, you can expect approximately 550 calories, depending on portion size and added ingredients. This dish serves as an occasional indulgent treat designed to nourish without compromising on flavor.
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking for ways to lighten up your baked spaghetti, consider these healthier swaps:
- Whole Wheat Pasta: Opt for whole wheat spaghetti for added fiber without sacrificing taste.
- Ground Turkey: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein.
- Low-Fat Cheese: Use part-skim mozzarella and Parmesan to cut back on fat while keeping that gooey texture.
- Vegetable Additions: Add chopped spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to boost the nutritional value without overpowering the classic flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Baked spaghetti makes for the perfect dish for casual family dinners or potlucks. Pair it with a light, crisp salad and some garlic bread for a well-rounded meal. And if you’re feeling indulgent, a scoop of vanilla ice cream drizzled with chocolate sauce makes for a delightful dessert that complements the savory dish beautifully.
Common Mistakes
Every great dish may have its pitfalls! Here are common mistakes to avoid when preparing baked spaghetti:
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on your dish to ensure the cheese doesn’t overbrown or harden.
- Texture Issues: Cooking the pasta too long before mixing it can lead to mushy noodles; al dente is key.
- Messy Layers: Not allowing your sauce and pasta to cool slightly can make for a messier transfer to the baking dish.
Storing Tips
Baked spaghetti is a dream for meal prep enthusiasts! Here’s how to make the most of your leftovers:
- Freezing Portions: Divide any leftover spaghetti into individual portions, wrap tightly, and store them in the freezer.
- Reheating Instructions: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350 degrees until fully warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Tempted to Bake it ASAP?
If this baked spaghetti has your taste buds tingling and your heart yearning for the warmth of family meals, then it’s time to hit the kitchen! Eager to create a dish that’s not just a meal but an experience, get those ingredients ready and delight in the joy of creating something so satisfying.
FAQs
1. Can I make baked spaghetti ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
2. Can I use a different protein?
Yes! Feel free to substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative.
3. Is baked spaghetti suitable for freezing?
Yes! It freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep.
4. Can I add vegetables to the baked spaghetti?
Definitely! Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers work wonderfully mixed into the sauce.
5. How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that your sauces are also gluten-free certified.
Now you have everything you need to whip up a delightful, creamy, and perfectly cheesy baked spaghetti. Happy cooking!
Print
Baked Spaghetti
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
A comforting and nostalgic baked spaghetti dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, featuring gooey cheese, tender pasta, and savory meat sauce.
Ingredients
- Cooking spray
- Kosher salt
- 1 lb. spaghetti
- 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 (28-oz.) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (8-oz.) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella
- 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan
- Chopped fresh parsley, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 13″ x 9″ baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat; cook the onions until softened, about 7 minutes, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the ground beef and Italian seasoning, season with salt and pepper, and cook until the meat is no longer pink, about 8 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce, then fold in the basil; let simmer for about 10 minutes, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Toss the cooked spaghetti with the sauce in the skillet until well combined, then transfer to the prepared baking dish.
- Top with mozzarella and Parmesan, then bake for about 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Baked spaghetti is perfect for meal prep and can be frozen for later. Consider adding vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
