When you think of comfort food, few dishes come close to the warmth and inviting nature of lasagna. This beloved Italian classic can be time-consuming to prepare, traditionally requiring layers of noodles, cheese, and meat or vegetables. But what if you could simplify that process while still keeping all the flavors you love? Enter Spaghetti Lasagna.
Why We Love This Spaghetti Lasagna Recipe
Spaghetti Lasagna has a special place in many hearts due to its comfort and versatility. One of the biggest perks of this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t have to fuss with precooking layers of lasagna noodles. Instead, you use spaghetti that cooks up quickly in boiling water. It’s a no-fuss, one-pot dish that still delivers on flavor.
Another reason to love this recipe is its manageability. With ingredients that you may already have in your pantry, it’s a great dish to make on a busy weeknight. Plus, Spaghetti Lasagna is customizable; you can easily switch up the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Finally, let’s not overlook the deliciousness. The combination of pasta, rich tomato sauce, savory ground beef, and melty cheese creates a symphony of flavors that is guaranteed to please everyone at the dinner table. Once you try it, you’ll be adding this recipe to your regular meal rotation.
Ingredients about Spaghetti Lasagna
To create your own delicious Spaghetti Lasagna, gather these ingredients:
- 14 oz cooked spaghetti (about 7 oz uncooked)
- 8 oz 85% lean ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp garlic (minced, divided)
- 2 oz onion (chopped)
- 1 tbsp Hunt’s tomato paste
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (divided to 2 1/2 tbsp and 1/2 tbsp)
- 3/4 tsp salt (divided to 1/2 tsp and 1/4 tsp)
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 cup homemade tomato sauce
- 1/2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 small egg (cracked and whisked)
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted chicken broth
- 0.5 oz cheddar cheese (grated)
- 2 tbsp parsley (finely chopped)
How to Make Spaghetti Lasagna Directions
Making Spaghetti Lasagna is as easy as gathering your ingredients and following these steps:
- Boil the Spaghetti: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook it according to package instructions, but take it off the heat one minute early for an al dente texture. After cooking, drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
- Prepare Your Ingredients: While your spaghetti cooks, you can prepare the other elements. Start by mincing the garlic and chopping your onion into even cubes for a consistent texture. Then, take your cheese and grate it finely. You want it to melt easily into the dish.
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula or wooden spoon as it cooks. After about 5-7 minutes, or until the meat is browned and cooked through, add your chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Add Tomato Paste and Spices: Stir in the tablespoon of Hunt’s tomato paste, 2 1/2 tablespoons of flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and your half teaspoon of pepper. Mixing these ingredients together will form a rich base.
- Incorporate the Sauces: Gradually pour in your homemade tomato sauce, chicken broth, and milk, stirring to combine all the flavors. Let this mixture bubble gently for about 5 minutes.
- Mix in the Egg: In a separate bowl, whisk your egg. Then, add it slowly to the meat and sauce mixture while stirring—this will help bind all the ingredients together.
- Combine with Spaghetti: Gently stir the cooked spaghetti into the mixture, ensuring that every strand is coated with the delicious meat sauce.
- Add Cheese and Bake: In a greased baking dish, add half of the spaghetti mixture. Sprinkle some grated cheddar cheese on top. Then, layer with the remaining spaghetti, adjusting to achieve even distribution. Finish by sprinkling the top with more cheese and some chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
- Final Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then bake your Spaghetti Lasagna for about 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Once out of the oven, let it sit for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This will help it set and ensure easier slicing.
How to Serve Spaghetti Lasagna
When it comes to serving Spaghetti Lasagna, there are plenty of options to make your meal feel special.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A simple garnish of freshly chopped parsley can elevate the dish, adding color and freshness.
- Pair with Sides: This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread to complete the feast. You can mix leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing counterpoint.
- Serve with a Side of Sauce: Offering extra homemade tomato sauce on the side allows your diners to adjust the flavor to their liking, adding a delicious tang.
- Plating: Serve the Spaghetti Lasagna warm, cutting it into squares. Presenting a colorful plate will not only make for a delicious meal but a visually appealing one too.
Expert Tips for Spaghetti Lasagna
- Choose Quality Ingredients: The spices and sauces you use will dramatically affect the overall flavor of the dish. Opt for quality tomato sauces and fresh herbs when possible.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since you’ll be baking the spaghetti later, undercook it slightly. It will soak up flavors while in the oven.
- Make Ahead of Time: Spaghetti Lasagna can be made in advance. Prepare the dish, cover it, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven—adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Customize with Favorites: Feel free to add your favorite veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers to the meat mixture for an added twist. You might also swap the cheese depending on your preference or dietary needs.
- Check for Doneness: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on the dish as it bakes. You want the cheese on top to be golden brown and bubbly.
How to Store Spaghetti Lasagna
If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely, given how delicious it is), storing Spaghetti Lasagna is simple:
- Refrigerate: Allow the lasagna to cool to room temperature. Then, store it in an airtight container, where it can last for about 3 to 4 days.
- Freeze for Later: If you’d like to save some for a future meal, cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store it in the freezer. It should maintain quality for about 2 to 3 months.
- Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat the lasagna in your oven at 350°F (175°C) until it’s heated through. You can cover it with foil to prevent drying.
Variations of Spaghetti Lasagna
Spaghetti Lasagna is a versatile dish that can easily adapt to your taste. Here are a few fun variations to consider:
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the meat for a medley of your favorite vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers. You can add some ricotta cheese for creaminess.
- Cheesy Spin: If you can’t get enough cheese, consider layering in mozzarella or even switching the cheddar for a more melty option.
- Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the meat mixture.
- Herbs and Spices: Adjust your seasoning! Basil, oregano, and thyme can transform the flavor profile into a more traditional Italian experience.
- Gluten-Free Version: For a gluten-free option, substitute traditional pasta with gluten-free spaghetti. Make sure your broth and sauces are also gluten-free.
FAQs about Spaghetti Lasagna
What is Spaghetti Lasagna?
Spaghetti Lasagna is a creative riff on traditional lasagna that uses spaghetti instead of lasagna noodles, mixed with ground beef, cheese, and a homemade sauce for layers of deliciousness.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with your favorite vegetables or even lentils for protein, and consider adding layers of ricotta or cottage cheese.
Can Spaghetti Lasagna be made ahead?
Yes, you can prep a Spaghetti Lasagna ahead of time. Just assemble the dish, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it.
What sides complement Spaghetti Lasagna?
This dish pairs beautifully with fresh salads, garlic bread, or even steamed vegetables to balance the richness.
How can I customize the ingredients?
Feel free to personalize your Spaghetti Lasagna! You can change the meats, switch up the cheeses, or add in your favorite vegetables for a unique twist tailored to your tastes.
Spaghetti Lasagna
Ingredients
Pasta and Meat Base
- 14 oz cooked spaghetti (about 7 oz uncooked)
- 8 oz 85% lean ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp garlic (minced, divided)
- 2 oz onion (chopped)
- 1 tbsp Hunt's tomato paste
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour (divided to 2 1/2 tbsp and 1/2 tbsp)
- 3/4 tsp salt (divided to 1/2 tsp and 1/4 tsp)
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 cup homemade tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 small egg (cracked and whisked)
- 1/2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 0.5 oz cheddar cheese (grated)
- 2 tbsp parsley (finely chopped)
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions, but take it off the heat one minute early for al dente texture. Drain and set aside.
- While the spaghetti cooks, mince the garlic and chop the onion into even cubes. Grate the cheese finely.
Cooking
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks for about 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until onions are translucent.
- Stir in Hunts tomato paste, 2 1/2 tablespoons of flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper to form a rich base.
- Gradually pour in the homemade tomato sauce, chicken broth, and milk, stirring to combine and let bubble gently for about 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk the egg and slowly add it to the meat mixture while stirring to bind the ingredients together.
- Gently stir in the cooked spaghetti until every strand is coated.
Baking
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the spaghetti mixture. Sprinkle with some grated cheddar cheese, then add the remaining spaghetti and top with more cheese and chopped parsley.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Serving
- Let it cool for 10-15 minutes before serving, then cut into squares and enjoy with a garnish of fresh herbs.
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