Introduction
Craving comfort food that’s cheesy, satisfying, and easy to make? Look no further than this Easy Baked Spaghetti recipe! It combines the rich flavors of a meaty marinara sauce, tender pasta, and gooey melted cheese—all baked to golden perfection. It’s the ultimate weeknight dinner or potluck favorite that both kids and adults love.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or stocking up on leftovers, this recipe delivers cozy, crave-worthy goodness with minimal effort.
Ingredients List
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
Cheese Layer:
- 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Topping:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Extra Parmesan, for garnish
Substitutions:
- Swap ricotta with cottage cheese or cream cheese for extra richness.
- Use ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter option.
- Add chopped spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.
Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
In a large skillet, cook ground beef with onion until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Mix the Cheese Layer
In a small bowl, mix ricotta (or cottage cheese), egg, garlic powder, and Parmesan until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish:
- Spread half of the cooked spaghetti.
- Layer half the meat sauce.
- Spoon the ricotta mixture across the top.
- Add remaining spaghetti, meat sauce, and top with mozzarella and extra Parmesan.
Step 5: Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition (Per Serving, Approx. 8 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbs | 42g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 720mg |
Tips for Success
- Cook spaghetti just until al dente—it’ll continue cooking in the oven.
- Let the casserole rest before slicing—it helps hold its shape.
- Use a deeper dish to prevent sauce from bubbling over.
Make Ahead & Storage
- Make Ahead: Assemble a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
- Freeze: Freeze fully baked and cooled spaghetti slices for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Microwave individual slices or bake at 350°F until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with garlic bread and a fresh green salad.
- Serve with roasted vegetables or sautéed spinach for added nutrients.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes! Penne, ziti, or rotini all work well.
Q: Can I leave out the egg in the cheese mixture?
A: Yes, but it helps bind the filling. Add a bit more ricotta or a tablespoon of cream as a substitute.
Q: Is this good for picky eaters?
A: Absolutely—it’s cheesy, mild, and easy to customize!
