Baked Spaghetti

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy pasta dish that brings the family together at the dinner table. Baked spaghetti has quickly become a staple in our home, not just for its delightful flavor but also for its ability to satisfy even the heartiest appetites. With layers of spaghetti, rich marinara sauce, and creamy cheese, this dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and wholesome. Each bite is a melty, savory experience that has my family eagerly reaching for seconds. Let me share with you how to create this delicious baked spaghetti that is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

• 1 pound spaghetti, cooked and drained
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the spaghetti from sticking.

Cook Meat

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until browned. Be sure to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess grease and stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes so the flavors meld together.

Layer Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the cooked spaghetti with ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. This will create a creamy base for your baked spaghetti. Spread half of this spaghetti mixture in the prepared baking dish, then layer it with half of the meat sauce. Repeat this process with the remaining spaghetti mixture and meat sauce, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.

Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the layered spaghetti. This cheesy topping will become golden and bubbly as it bakes.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly. If you prefer a golden, crispy top, remove the foil and broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Garnish and Serve

Once baked, let the spaghetti cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy the delightful flavors of this baked spaghetti with your loved ones!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: 450
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 45g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 24g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• Garnish: Top with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and color.
• Pair: Serve with a side salad to balance the richness of the dish.
• Accompany: Add garlic bread on the side for a complete Italian meal.
• Customize: Offer extra cheese or crushed red pepper for those who like to spice things up.
• Serve Family Style: Place the baking dish on the table and let everyone help themselves.

Additional Tips

1. Choose Your Meat: Ground beef or Italian sausage both work well, but you can use ground turkey for a lighter option.
2. Make It Ahead: Prepare the dish in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time.
3. Mix Up the Cheese: Try using different cheeses, such as provolone or gouda, for unique flavor profiles.
4. Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meat with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.
5. Spaghetti Alternatives: Feel free to use other pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni for a fun twist.

Recipe Variations

• Cheesy Baked Spaghetti: Add extra layers of cheese between the spaghetti and sauce layers for an even cheesier dish.
• Spicy Baked Spaghetti: Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes into the meat sauce for a little heat.
• Mediterranean Baked Spaghetti: Use a marinara sauce with olives, feta, and spinach for a Mediterranean flair.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve baked spaghetti as the main dish at family gatherings or potlucks.
• Pair with a light red wine, like Chianti, for an enjoyable dinner experience.
• Consider serving with a side of roasted vegetables for added nutrition.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Allow the baked spaghetti to cool completely before freezing. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   Yes, simply omit the meat and add more vegetables or use a meat substitute.
2. How can I make this dish lighter?
   Use whole wheat pasta, low-fat cheese, and lean ground turkey.
3. Can I prepare this in advance?
   Absolutely! You can assemble it the day before and bake it when you’re ready.
4. What type of marinara sauce should I use?
   Use your favorite store-bought brand or homemade marinara for the best flavor.
5. Is it okay to use a different type of pasta?
   Yes, any pasta shape will work, but cooking times may vary slightly.
6. How do I store leftovers?
   Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
7. Can I freeze baked spaghetti?
   Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
8. How do I know when it’s done baking?
   The dish is done when it’s bubbly and the cheese on top is golden brown.
9. What can I serve with baked spaghetti?
   Pair it with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables.
10. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
    Yes, fresh herbs can enhance the flavor. Use three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried.

Conclusion

Baked spaghetti is not only a delicious and filling meal but also a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prepping for busy days ahead. The combination of hearty meat, creamy cheeses, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a comforting dish that everyone will love. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the delightful aroma and flavors of this baked spaghetti that’s sure to become a family favorite!

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