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Baked Spaghetti Casserole
Introduction:
If you’re craving comfort food that combines the richness of pasta, savory beef, and bubbling cheese, look no further than this Baked Spaghetti Casserole. It’s a homestyle classic — simple to make, full of flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser. This dish layers spaghetti with a hearty meat sauce and melty cheese, then bakes to golden perfection. Perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a hungry crowd!
Ingredients:
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1 pound spaghetti
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 medium onion, chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 pound ground beef
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
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1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese (optional layer)
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
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Instructions:
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Cook the Spaghetti:
Boil the spaghetti in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. -
Make the Meat Sauce:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions until soft, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
Pour in the pasta sauce and simmer for 5–7 minutes, letting flavors meld. -
Layer the Casserole:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a greased baking dish, add a layer of cooked spaghetti. Spoon over some meat sauce, then spread a layer of ricotta or cottage cheese if using. Repeat layers until ingredients are used up.
Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. -
Bake:
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.ADVERTISEMENT
Conclusion:
This Baked Spaghetti Casserole is everything you love about spaghetti, taken to the next level. With its cheesy topping, flavorful meat sauce, and satisfying layers, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and again. Serve it with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete, comforting meal the whole family will love. ❤️
