When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compare to the rich, hearty goodness of baked spaghetti. This classic Italian-American dish is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy. If you’re looking for a recipe that balances convenience and flavor, baked spaghetti is the perfect choice.
Why We Love This Baked Spaghetti Recipe
This baked spaghetti recipe is cherished for several compelling reasons. Firstly, it brings a sense of nostalgia; many of us grew up enjoying this dish, making it a treasured family favorite. Secondly, its hearty nature makes it suitable for various occasions. You can serve it for weekday dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings, and even as party food.
You will also appreciate the straightforward preparation process. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that will impress friends and family alike. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe where you can easily switch up the proteins or add vegetables to suit your preferences.
And let’s not forget the delightful combination of flavors and textures! The tender spaghetti, flavorful meat sauce, and gooey cheese create a pleasing experience for your taste buds. When baked to perfection, this dish is an irresistible crowd-pleaser that ensures everyone comes back for seconds.
Ingredients for Baked Spaghetti
To whip up this scrumptious baked spaghetti, gather the following ingredients:
- 16 ounces dry spaghetti
- 1 pound ground chuck (or ground chicken/turkey)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil, divided
- 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
These ingredients are easy to find and combine classic Italian flavors with your favorite comfort food.
How to Make Baked Spaghetti
Creating your own baked spaghetti is both simple and rewarding. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a successful outcome:
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your baked spaghetti cooks evenly and develops that beautiful, bubbly cheese crust.
Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente, which means the pasta should be firm to the bite. Once done, drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, add your choice of ground meat. Allow it to brown fully, using a wooden spoon to break it into smaller pieces. This will take around 7-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat for a healthier dish.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: Wipe out the skillet to remove any residue from the meat. Add the olive oil and butter, then toss in the diced onion. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the onion is transparent and soft. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release its wonderful aroma.
Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked meat to the skillet. Stir in the marinara sauce, along with 1 tablespoon of the freshly chopped basil and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir everything together until it’s well combined.
Mix with Spaghetti: Gently fold the cooked spaghetti into the skillet, ensuring each strand is coated with the delicious meat sauce. Once mixed, transfer the mixture into your prepared 9×13 inch baking dish.
Add Cheese: Finally, sprinkle the top of the spaghetti mixture generously with the shredded mozzarella and remaining Parmesan cheese. This cheesy layer is essential for that perfect baked finish.
Bake: Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it—you want the cheese to melt and turn golden brown, while the entire dish is heated through.
Garnish and Serve: After baking, take it out and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with the remaining chopped basil before serving to add a fresh touch.
That’s it! You now have a warm, cheesy baked spaghetti ready to be enjoyed.
How to Serve Baked Spaghetti
Serving baked spaghetti can be as simple or as elaborate as you wish. Here are a few serving suggestions to consider:
Family Style: Serve the baked spaghetti directly from the baking dish on the dining table, allowing everyone to help themselves. This approach fosters a cozy, communal atmosphere.
Individual Portions: Use a large spoon to dish out individual servings on plates. This can make it feel more sophisticated, especially for dinner parties or special occasions.
Pair with Sides: Enhance your meal by pairing baked spaghetti with a side salad dressed in vinaigrette, some garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. These sides can elevate the dining experience and add some nutritional benefits.
Wine Pairing: Although this recipe avoids using wine, consider serving a non-alcoholic sparkling water or a refreshing lemonade as a drink option to balance the meal.
You can also make the dish more enticing by adding a few sprigs of fresh basil on top as a garnish; it adds a lovely burst of color and freshness.
Expert Tips for Baked Spaghetti
To ensure you achieve the best possible baked spaghetti, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the spaghetti will continue to cook while baking, it’s important to boil your pasta to al dente. This texture will help it hold up during the baking process.
Feel Free to Customize: You can experiment with the type of meat you use—ground turkey or chicken will give you a lighter version, while ground beef provides rich flavor. Additionally, consider sneaking in some finely diced vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, into the sauce for added nutrients.
Cheese Variety: While mozzarella and Parmesan are traditional, feel free to mix in other cheeses, such as gouda or provolone, for extra flavor.
Season Well: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper. The seasoning balances the richness of the dish. Remember to taste as you go!
Baking Dish Matters: Using a glass or ceramic dish promotes even cooking, while metal could potentially cause uneven heating. Additionally, ensure your baking dish size accommodates the volume of your spaghetti.
How to Store Baked Spaghetti
Storing your leftover baked spaghetti is easy and will allow you to enjoy it days later. Follow these storage tips:
Cooling: Allow the baked spaghetti to cool completely at room temperature. This helps preserve the texture and flavor.
Refrigeration: Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze baked spaghetti. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy your stored spaghetti, simply reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through. If it appears dry, a splash of marinara sauce or olive oil can help rejuvenate it.
Variations of Baked Spaghetti
If you find yourself wanting to explore different flavors, consider trying one of the following variations to customize your baked spaghetti experience:
Vegetarian Baked Spaghetti: Replace the meat with your favorite combination of roasted vegetables or lentils for a meatless option. You can also experiment with ricotta cheese for added creaminess.
Spicy Baked Spaghetti: Add red pepper flakes to your sauce for an extra kick. Additionally, consider using spicy Italian sausage instead of regular ground meat.
Cheesy Vegetable Baked Spaghetti: Stir in some steamed vegetables like broccoli or spinach into your meat sauce before combining it with the spaghetti. This not only adds flavor but also increases the nutritional value.
Mediterranean Twist: Use a mix of ground lamb, feta cheese, and olives for a Mediterranean-style baked spaghetti. Adding sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs will also elevate the dish’s flavor.
Each variation offers a unique take on the classic baked spaghetti, allowing you to keep meals exciting and adaptable.
FAQ About Baked Spaghetti
Can I make baked spaghetti ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to a day in advance, just skip the baking step. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, simply bake it following the instructions.
Is baked spaghetti freezer-friendly?
Yes, baked spaghetti freezes beautifully! Make sure to cool it completely before portioning and then freeze in airtight containers or bags.
Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Yes, gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe. Just be mindful of the cooking times, as gluten-free noodles may differ.
How do you know when the baked spaghetti is done?
The dish should be heated throughout, with the cheese melted and slightly golden on top. You can use a food thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Baked Spaghetti
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large Skillet
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish
Ingredients
- 16 ounces dry spaghetti
- 1 pound ground chuck or ground chicken/turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 yellow onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil chopped, divided
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese freshly shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated, divided
- Kosher salt to taste
- black pepper freshly ground, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground meat, breaking it into smaller pieces. Drain excess fat.
- Sauté the diced onion in the same skillet with olive oil and butter for 4-5 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Combine the cooked meat, marinara sauce, 1 tablespoon of basil, and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese in the skillet. Season with salt and pepper.
- Fold the cooked spaghetti into the sauce mixture and transfer to a prepared 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Top with mozzarella and remaining Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Let it rest for a few minutes, garnish with remaining basil, and serve warm.
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