Baked Spaghetti Casserole Easy and Hearty Dinner

Looking for an easy and hearty dinner? My Baked Spaghetti Casserole will satisfy your cravings! This dish combines layers of cheesy goodness and savory meat sauce, all baked to perfection. It’s perfect for busy nights or family gatherings. In this post, I’ll share all the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and handy tips to make your casserole a hit. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that everyone will love!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Baked Spaghetti Casserole

To create a tasty baked spaghetti casserole, gather these main ingredients:

– 12 ounces spaghetti

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 medium onion, diced

– 2 garlic cloves, minced

– 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)

– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon dried basil

– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 2 cups ricotta cheese

– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

These ingredients work together to create a rich and hearty dish. The ground meat gives protein, while the cheeses add creaminess.

Optional Ingredients

You can tweak the recipe by adding these optional ingredients for extra flavor:

– Sliced black olives

– Fresh spinach or kale

– Bell peppers, diced

– Mushrooms, sliced

– Italian sausage

These options let you customize the casserole to fit your tastes. Feel free to mix and match!

Suggested Substitutions

If you need to change things up or accommodate dietary needs, consider these substitutions:

– Use gluten-free spaghetti for a gluten-free option.

– Swap ground beef for lentils or beans for a vegetarian version.

– Replace ricotta with cottage cheese for a different texture.

– Try fresh herbs instead of dried for a fresher taste.

These substitutions keep the spirit of the dish while making it your own. Enjoy experimenting!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Spaghetti

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step helps the casserole bake evenly. Next, fill a large pot with water and add salt. Bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, add 12 ounces of spaghetti. Cook until it is al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside. This will be the base of your casserole.

Cooking the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft. Then, add 1 pound of ground beef or ground turkey. Cook this for 6-7 minutes until it is brown and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy dish. Pour in a can of crushed tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and season with salt and pepper. Let this mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

Assembling the Casserole

In a large bowl, mix the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce, ensuring the pasta is fully coated. In another bowl, combine 2 cups of ricotta cheese with half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to this mixture. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread half of the spaghetti mixture along the bottom. Layer the ricotta mixture over this. Finally, add the remaining spaghetti on top.

Baking the Casserole

Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the spaghetti. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes. After this, carefully remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes. This will make the cheese on top golden and bubbly. Once done, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. For a nice touch, garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your meal! For the full recipe, check [Full Recipe].

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Perfect Cheese Melt

To get that perfect cheese melt, use fresh cheese. Shredded cheese from a block melts better than pre-shredded cheese. Mix mozzarella and Parmesan for a rich flavor. Layer the cheese properly; add some in the middle and on top. Cover the dish with foil for the first part of baking. This keeps the steam in, helping the cheese melt well. Remove the foil for the last 15 minutes to get a golden top.

Enhancing Flavor with Seasoning

Seasoning is key to great flavor. Use fresh herbs like basil or oregano if you can. They add a bright taste to the dish. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick. Taste the sauce before mixing it with pasta. Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Remember, seasoning is personal. Trust your taste buds for the best result.

How to Make Ahead of Time

Making this casserole ahead is simple. You can prepare it a day before. Follow all the steps, then cover it well with foil. Store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Bake it straight from the fridge, but add extra time. This helps the casserole heat evenly. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking. For the full recipe, check back to ensure every step is right!

Variations

Vegetarian Baked Spaghetti Casserole

You can easily make a vegetarian baked spaghetti casserole. Start by swapping out the meat. Use chopped veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms instead. These add great flavor and texture. You might also try using lentils or black beans for protein. Keep the rest of the recipe the same. This dish will still be hearty and filling.

Gluten-Free Options

If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free spaghetti. Many brands offer great alternatives made from rice or corn. The cooking method stays the same, so you don’t lose any flavor. You can also check the labels on your sauces and cheeses to ensure they are gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this tasty meal.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to get creative with flavors! You can add spices like Italian seasoning or garlic powder to boost taste. For a smoky flavor, try adding diced bacon or pancetta. You can even mix in veggies like spinach or kale for added nutrition. Customize your baked spaghetti casserole to suit your taste buds.

For the full recipe, check out the details above!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your baked spaghetti casserole, let it cool first. Once cool, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. To keep it even longer, consider wrapping individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it from drying out. Heat for about 20 to 25 minutes. You can also reheat single portions in the microwave. Just warm it for 2 to 3 minutes, checking to make sure it’s hot throughout.

Freezing Baked Spaghetti Casserole

You can freeze baked spaghetti casserole for up to three months. To freeze, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and cover it in foil. Label the container with the date. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 to 40 minutes, or until hot. For the best taste, try to eat it within a month or two.

This easy and hearty dinner can be a meal prep star, making busy nights much smoother. For a full recipe, check out the details above!

FAQs

How long does Baked Spaghetti Casserole last in the fridge?

Baked Spaghetti Casserole can last about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. This helps keep the flavors fresh and prevents drying out. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in the oven or microwave.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can use different types of cheese! Cheddar, provolone, or even gouda can work well. Mixing cheeses adds depth to the flavor. Just remember to keep some mozzarella for that perfect stretchy effect on top.

What can I serve with Baked Spaghetti Casserole?

I love serving Baked Spaghetti Casserole with a simple side salad. A green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a fresh touch. Garlic bread is also a great choice for soaking up the sauce. You can even add some steamed veggies for extra color and nutrition.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Baked Spaghetti Casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just portion it out into containers for easy lunches or dinners. Reheating is simple, too, making it a great option for busy days. For the full recipe, check out the details above.

Baked spaghetti casserole is a great meal for any occasion. We covered the main and optional ingredients, along with helpful substitutions. You learned the steps to prepare, cook, and bake it right. Tips on cheese melting and flavor boosts make your dish even better. Variations cater to different diets and tastes. Lastly, storing and reheating tips help you enjoy leftovers. With this knowledge, you can create a tasty, versatile dish that everyone will love. Enjoy your cooking!

Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Discover the comforting flavors of Baked Spaghetti Casserole, a delicious dish that's perfect for family dinners! This easy recipe combines hearty spaghetti, savory ground beef, rich ricotta, and gooey mozzarella for a meal everyone will love. Follow our simple steps to create a cheesy, mouthwatering casserole that bakes up golden and bubbly. Click through to explore this recipe and bring the warmth to your table tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  

12 ounces spaghetti

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 pound ground beef (or opt for ground turkey for a leaner option)

1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for those who enjoy heat)

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

 

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later use.

In a spacious skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is softened and the garlic is fragrant.

Incorporate the ground beef (or turkey) into the skillet, cooking it until browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 6-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed to keep the dish from being greasy.

Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with the dried oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Allow this mixture to simmer for approximately 10 minutes, which will help the flavors to meld beautifully.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce, tossing it together until the pasta is thoroughly coated in the sauce.

In a separate bowl, blend the ricotta cheese with half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan. Season this mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper for added flavor.

Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and spread half of the spaghetti mixture evenly across the bottom. Layer the ricotta mixture over this, followed by the remaining spaghetti on top.

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the final layer of spaghetti.

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, then bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is delightfully golden and bubbly.

Once completed, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish each portion with fresh basil leaves for a vibrant finish.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6-8

- Presentation Tips: Serve individual portions on plates, garnishing each with a sprig of fresh basil. For extra color, include a small side salad to complement the richness of the casserole.