Baked Spaghetti Recipe

When it comes to hearty and satisfying meals, baked spaghetti is a timeless favorite that combines the rich flavors of pasta, cheese, and savory sauce. This dish not only comforts the soul but also makes for a crowd-pleasing dinner option that’s easy to prepare. Here’s how you can create your own delicious baked spaghetti at home:

Ingredients:

• Spaghetti: 1 pound (450g), cooked al dente according to package instructions
• Marinara Sauce: 4 cups (about 1 liter), homemade or store-bought
• Ground Beef: 1 pound (450g), lean
• Italian Sausage: 1/2 pound (225g), mild or spicy, casings removed
• Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
• Salt and Pepper: To taste
• Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups, shredded
• Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup, grated
• Fresh Basil: For garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
2. Cook the Pasta: Cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Brown the Meat: Add ground beef and Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking them into small pieces with a spatula or spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
5. Combine Sauce and Pasta: Pour marinara sauce into the skillet with the meat mixture. Stir well to combine, then add the cooked spaghetti. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with sauce.
6. Layer in Baking Dish: Transfer half of the spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top. Repeat with the remaining spaghetti and cheese.
7. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Tips for Success:

• Cooking Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta al dente as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to mix up the cheeses! Fontina, provolone, or ricotta can also add a delicious twist.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just increase the baking time slightly if baking from cold.

Conclusion:

Baked spaghetti is a comforting dish that brings together the flavors of tender pasta, savory meats, and melted cheese in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of homemade comfort food with this easy-to-follow recipe!