Everybody loves a hearty meal that brings comfort and satisfaction at the end of a long day. Enter the Baked Spaghetti Casserole—a dish that combines the beloved elements of spaghetti with a delightful twist. This satisfying recipe is ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply enjoying a cozy dinner at home. With layers of tender spaghetti, robust meat, marinara sauce, and melted cheese, each bite is a blend of flavors that will have you coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds!).
Why We Love This Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
This Baked Spaghetti Casserole is not just another pasta dish; it’s a complete meal that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. It’s the perfect go-to recipe for busy weeknights, but it’s also special enough to serve during festive occasions. What makes it truly irresistible is its creamy texture and cheesy goodness. You can customize it according to your dietary preferences, whether you prefer ground beef, chicken, or turkey. It’s easy to whip up and doesn’t involve complicated techniques, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Plus, it creates an inviting aroma that will fill your home and make everyone eager to gather around the dinner table.
Ingredients for Baked Spaghetti Casserole
To prepare a scrumptious Baked Spaghetti Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti (You can substitute with angel hair or thin spaghetti)
- 1 pound ground beef (Feel free to use ground chicken or turkey)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 (32 oz) jar of marinara sauce (Alternatively, use crushed tomatoes seasoned with oregano and basil)
- 1/2 cup water or stock
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
How to Make Baked Spaghetti Casserole Directions
Start your journey to culinary perfection by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven warms up, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add your spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, making sure to avoid overcooking. Remember, the spaghetti will continue to cook in the oven, so al dente is the ideal texture to achieve.
While the pasta cooks, grab a large skillet and heat your olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat and chopped onion to the skillet. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion is tender, ensuring to drain any excess fat for a lighter dish.
Next, introduce the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it becomes fragrant. Pour in the marinara sauce along with half a cup of water or stock. Stir everything together and allow this mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it melds the flavors together, resulting in a rich and savory sauce.
Once your pasta has reached the desired doneness, drain it and set it aside. Now it’s time for assembly! Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish generously. Start by spreading one-third of the meat sauce across the bottom of the dish. Layer half of the cooked spaghetti over the sauce, followed by half a cup of grated cheddar cheese.
Repeat this process with another layer of sauce, the remaining spaghetti, and finish with the last of the cheese on top. This layering technique not only enhances the presentation but also ensures that every bite is an explosion of flavors and textures.
Finally, you’re ready to bake it! Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until it’s bubbling and golden. The waiting will be worth it when the delicious aromas start to fill your space.
How to Serve Baked Spaghetti Casserole
Once your Baked Spaghetti Casserole emerges from the oven, allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This short period of rest enables the layers to settle, making it easier to cut and serve. To present the dish, slice it into squares and plate it up. You can garnish it with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
This casserole is lovely on its own, but you can pair it with a fresh green salad and garlic bread to elevate your meal even further. The combination creates a delightful dining experience that your family and guests will appreciate. This dish is not just food; it’s a way to create memories around the table, filled with laughter and good conversation.
Expert Tips: Baked Spaghetti Casserole
Here are some expert tips to ensure that your Baked Spaghetti Casserole turns out perfectly every time:
Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for a good quality marinara sauce for a richer flavor. You can even make your own sauce if you have the time.
Avoid Overcooking the Pasta: Since the spaghetti will finish cooking in the oven, make sure to stop boiling while it’s still a little firm. This will prevent a mushy casserole.
Customize: Feel free to throw in some vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to amp up the nutritional value. This adds both color and flavor to your dish.
Cheese It Up: Experiment with different types of cheese for mixing or topping. Mozzarella, provolone, or even a sprinkle of parmesan can give the dish a unique twist.
Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving allows it to set, making it easier to cut.
How to Store Baked Spaghetti Casserole
Storage is simple and straightforward for leftover Baked Spaghetti Casserole. Once cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the fridge. You can store it for up to three days. If you wish to preserve the casserole for a longer period, consider freezing it. To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of foil. It can last up to three months in the freezer, making it a great meal prep option.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the casserole in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, adding a few minutes as necessary, until it’s heated through.
Variations of Baked Spaghetti Casserole
The best part about Baked Spaghetti Casserole is its adaptability. You can easily make it your own with a few simple modifications:
Meat Alternatives: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. If you’re vegetarian, swap ground meat for a mix of your favorite veggies or plant-based meats.
Different Sauces: If you want to switch things up, consider using Alfredo sauce instead of marinara for a creamy version of the casserole.
Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free meal, use gluten-free pasta or spaghetti made from lentils or chickpeas.
Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat, or mix in jalapeños for an extra kick.
Cheesy Bliss: For the ultimate cheese lovers, try adding ricotta or cottage cheese layers for creaminess. Top it with your favorite melting cheese for that gooey finish.
FAQ: Baked Spaghetti Casserole
What is Baked Spaghetti Casserole?
Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a delicious dish that layers spaghetti with meat sauce and cheese, baked to perfection. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for families or gatherings.
Can I make Baked Spaghetti Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator or freeze it for later. Baking time might change slightly, so adjust accordingly.
What should I serve with Baked Spaghetti Casserole?
This hearty casserole pairs well with a fresh salad and garlic bread. You can also add steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Baked Spaghetti Casserole
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large Skillet
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish
- Measuring Spoons
- Colander
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti or angel hair
- 1 lb ground beef or ground chicken/turkey
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 32 oz marinara sauce or crushed tomatoes seasoned with oregano and basil
- 1/2 cup water or stock
- 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil a large pot of water and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground meat and chopped onion, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in marinara sauce and water or stock, allowing the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer one-third of the meat sauce on the bottom, followed by half of the cooked spaghetti and half a cup of cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layers with another third of the meat sauce, the remaining spaghetti, and top with the last of the meat sauce and cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until bubbling and golden on top.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
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