Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting, family-style meal that brings together all the flavors of traditional spaghetti in a richer, heartier, and more satisfying baked dish. Layers of tender spaghetti, seasoned meat sauce, and melted cheese come together to create a warm, bubbly casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or gatherings where you want to serve something filling and delicious. This dish takes familiar ingredients and transforms them into a golden, cheesy masterpiece that everyone at the table will love. It’s easy to prepare, makes generous portions, and delivers bold, homestyle flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Spaghetti Base:

• 12 oz spaghetti

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 eggs, lightly beaten

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

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For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or spaghetti sauce

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional for extra texture)

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• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Layers:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese or cottage cheese

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

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• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Spaghetti

Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente.
Drain, then immediately toss with butter.
Add beaten eggs and Parmesan cheese and mix well until the pasta is evenly coated.
This mixture helps the spaghetti form a stable base when baked.

2. Make the Meat Sauce

In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
Add diced onion and garlic; sauté until softened and fragrant.
Stir in marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to blend.

3. Assemble the Casserole

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Layer the ingredients as follows:

1. Spread the spaghetti mixture evenly across the bottom.

2. Spoon the ricotta or cottage cheese over the spaghetti.

3. Pour the meat sauce on top.

4. Finish with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella and extra Parmesan.

4. Bake

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling around the edges.

5. Garnish and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes to help it set before cutting.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Serving Tip

Pair this casserole with garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete, satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Baked Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort-food dish, blending the familiar flavors of classic spaghetti with the cozy appeal of a baked pasta casserole. The layers of cheese, tender pasta, and flavorful meat sauce make every bite hearty and delicious. This recipe is simple, versatile, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week. Once you try this baked version, it may become your new favorite way to enjoy spaghetti.