Baked Spaghetti Recipe
If you’re craving a warm, comforting dish that feels like a big, delicious hug in pasta form, this Baked Spaghetti Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Loaded with tender spaghetti noodles, rich tomato sauce, savory ground beef, and a golden blanket of melted mozzarella, this dish captures all the cozy flavors that make Italian-American classics irresistible. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough to share with guests, making it one of those timeless recipes you’ll want to keep coming back to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might look straightforward, but each one plays an essential role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that elevate this Baked Spaghetti Recipe into a true crowd-pleaser.
- 12 oz spaghetti: The perfect pasta for soaking up all the saucy goodness.
- 1 lb ground beef: Adds heartiness and a rich, meaty flavor to the dish.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Provides sweetness and a gentle savory base.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Brings aromatic depth and a burst of flavor.
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce: The main sauce that ties everything together with bright, tangy tomato notes.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (drained): Adds texture and fresh tomato chunks.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses warmth and complexity.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat.
- 2 large eggs: Binds the spaghetti and cheese for a creamy, cohesive bake.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sharp and nutty, it amps up the cheesy factor.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create that signature golden, gooey topping.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing onions and garlic, adding richness and silkiness.
- Cooking spray or butter: Prevents sticking and helps create a perfectly baked crust.
How to Make Baked Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Cook the Spaghetti
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish so the baked spaghetti won’t stick. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the spaghetti until just al dente. The noodles should be tender but still have a slight bite since they’ll continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set the pasta aside—this forms the perfect base for our layers of flavor.
Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onion until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook just 30 seconds to release its wonderful aroma without burning it. Add in the ground beef and cook thoroughly until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat to keep the sauce light yet hearty. Stir in the marinara sauce, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let this simmer for 5 minutes so all the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 3: Combine Spaghetti with Eggs and Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs together with the grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. Adding eggs might seem unusual but they act like glue, binding the spaghetti and cheese into a creamy, luscious layer. Toss the cooked spaghetti into this mixture, making sure every strand is well coated. This step ensures the bake holds together perfectly and creates that luxurious texture you’ll love.
Step 4: Layering and Baking
Spread half of your egg-coated spaghetti evenly in the prepared baking dish. Spoon half of the rich meat sauce on top, then sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layering process with the remaining spaghetti, sauce, and mozzarella. Cover your baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. When you remove the foil, let it bake uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes so the cheese bubbles and becomes beautifully golden. Don’t forget to let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving; this step helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to slice.
How to Serve Baked Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can brighten up this cozy dish and add fresh layers of flavor. A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or parsley adds a pop of green color and a refreshing herbal note. You can also grate a little extra Parmesan on top for cheese lovers who want an even richer experience. For a touch of heat, some red pepper flakes are always a fun option to sprinkle right before serving.
Side Dishes
Baked spaghetti is hearty and filling, so pairing it with lighter sides balances the meal perfectly. A crisp Caesar salad or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette brings a peppery freshness that complements the richness of the pasta. Garlic bread or homemade dinner rolls are excellent for soaking up every last bit of that savory sauce, making your meal downright indulgent and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to make your Baked Spaghetti Recipe feel extra special, try baking it in individual ramekins for personal servings. This presentation is perfect for dinner parties or cozy family meals. You can also top each portion with an extra slice of fresh mozzarella or sun-dried tomatoes before baking, adding a gourmet touch that dazzles the eyes as well as the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover baked spaghetti makes for an amazing next-day lunch or quick dinner. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. When you’re ready to eat, the flavors will have had time to deepen, making it taste even better after a day or two!
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully, making it a perfect option for meal prepping. To freeze, let the baked spaghetti cool completely, then wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and a layer of foil to prevent freezer burn. You can also portion it into freezer-safe containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months, ready for whenever you need a quick and comforting meal.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen baked spaghetti overnight in the fridge if possible. Warm in a 350°F oven covered with foil to keep the moisture in, usually for about 20 to 25 minutes until heated through. You can finish by uncovering in the last few minutes to re-melt and refresh that golden cheese topping. Alternatively, microwave portions on medium power in short bursts to avoid drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of ground meat in this Baked Spaghetti Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage works wonderfully here. Each brings a slightly different flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite version.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can skip the ground beef and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers instead. Using a plant-based ground “meat” alternative is another great way to keep the heartiness while making it vegetarian-friendly.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
Adding red pepper flakes when you stir in the sauce or sprinkling them on top before baking adds just the right kick. You can also mix in a dash of hot sauce or spicy Italian sausage for more heat.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time before baking?
Yes! Assemble everything in the baking dish and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven—it might need a few extra minutes since it’s cold, but the flavors will be even more melded and delicious.
What can I use if I don’t have eggs for binding?
You can substitute with about ½ cup of ricotta cheese or a mixture of ¼ cup plain yogurt and ¼ cup grated Parmesan. Both will still help hold the spaghetti and cheese together nicely.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Spaghetti Recipe is one of those unbeatable dishes that feels like home no matter the occasion. It’s cheesy, saucy, and packed with comforting flavors that will quickly become a favorite at your table. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and make this classic dinner tonight—you’re going to love every single bite!
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Baked Spaghetti Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This comforting baked spaghetti recipe layers tender pasta with savory ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese for a hearty and delicious dinner that’s perfect for family meals or potlucks.
Ingredients
Spaghetti and Sauce
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Cheese Mixture
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Other
- Cooking spray or butter, for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Cook Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables and Brown Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Add ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Make Sauce: Stir in marinara sauce, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into the skillet with the beef. Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes to blend the flavors, then remove from heat.
- Mix Eggs and Cheese: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and grated Parmesan cheese until combined. Add the cooked spaghetti and toss well so the pasta is coated with the egg mixture.
- Assemble Layers: Spread half of the spaghetti mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the meat sauce, then sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat by layering the remaining spaghetti, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to allow everything to meld and cook through.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and lightly golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Let the baked spaghetti rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving to help it set.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage for the ground beef for a different flavor.
- Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Incorporate sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added nutrition and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
