Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Why Make Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines everyone’s favorite pasta with rich flavors. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. This recipe is simple to follow, and the results are always satisfying. With layers of cheese, meat, and pasta, this casserole will please both kids and adults alike!

How to Make Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
3. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, seasoning with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Drain any excess fat.
4. Mix the cooked spaghetti, marinara sauce, browned beef, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese in a large bowl.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

How to Serve Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Baked Spaghetti Casserole is great on its own, but you can also serve it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a touch of freshness, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top before serving.

How to Store Baked Spaghetti Casserole

To store leftover Baked Spaghetti Casserole, let it cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make Baked Spaghetti Casserole

• For added flavor, use Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes.
• You can mix in cooked vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Variation

Try adding different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor. You can also substitute the marinara sauce with a creamy Alfredo for a twist on the classic dish.

FAQs

1. Can I make Baked Spaghetti Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready, bake it as directed.

2. How do I fix dry spaghetti casserole?
If your casserole seems dry, you can add a bit more marinara sauce before baking or sprinkle some water over it before covering with foil to keep moisture inside.

3. Can I use gluten-free spaghetti?
Absolutely! Gluten-free spaghetti works well in this recipe. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best results.