Cheesy Baked Spaghetti
Why Make This Recipe
Cheesy Baked Spaghetti is a delightful comfort food that brings people together. It’s easy to make and perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The combination of savory meat, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese will surely be a hit. Plus, it allows you to enjoy a classic dish with a cheesy twist!
How to Make Cheesy Baked Spaghetti
Ingredients:
- Spaghetti
- Ground beef or sausage
- Marinara sauce
- Mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Garlic
- Onion
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions and drain.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until softened.
- Add ground beef or sausage and cook until browned.
- Stir in marinara sauce and let it simmer.
- In a large bowl, mix cooked spaghetti with the sauce mixture and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Serve with garlic bread.
How to Serve Cheesy Baked Spaghetti
Cheesy Baked Spaghetti is best enjoyed hot and fresh from the oven. Serve it alongside garlic bread and a simple green salad to complete the meal. You can also offer extra grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who want a little more flavor.
How to Store Cheesy Baked Spaghetti
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Then, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Tips to Make Cheesy Baked Spaghetti
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- For more flavor, add some Italian herbs like oregano or basil to the meat mixture.
- Feel free to substitute the ground beef or sausage with ground turkey or a vegetarian option for a lighter version.
Variation
You can customize Cheesy Baked Spaghetti by adding different veggies like bell peppers or spinach. Another variation is to use a blend of cheeses, such as cheddar or ricotta.
FAQs
Can I use spaghetti squash instead of regular spaghetti?
Yes! Spaghetti squash is a great low-carb alternative. Bake it and scrape the strands into your sauce mixture.
How do I know when the cheese is done?
The cheese should be bubbly and golden brown on top. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes in the oven.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheesy baked spaghetti up to the point of baking, cover it, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready, just bake it as directed.
Cheesy Baked Spaghetti
Ingredients
Pasta and Meat
- 8 ounces Spaghetti Cook according to package instructions
- 1 pound Ground beef or sausage Can substitute with ground turkey or vegetarian option
Sauce and Cheese
- 2 cups Marinara sauce
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded Divided for mixing and topping
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Aromatics and Seasoning
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 medium Onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil For sautéing
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
Instructions
Preparation and Cooking
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions and drain.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until softened.
- Add ground beef or sausage and cook until browned.
- Stir in marinara sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes.
- In a large bowl, mix cooked spaghetti with the sauce mixture and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
