If you’re craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that combines the best of pasta, cheese, and rich tomato sauce, you’ve come to the right place. This Baked Spaghetti Recipe is an absolute game-changer—imagine tender spaghetti noodles baked under layers of savory meat sauce and melted mozzarella, crowned with creamy ricotta and Parmesan. It’s warm, cheesy, and packed with flavor in every bite, perfect for family dinners or any time you want to serve up a slice of cozy Italian-American bliss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward flavor perfection. Each one brings something special—whether it’s the hearty texture of ground beef, the zing of garlic, or the melty goodness of mozzarella and ricotta cheeses that make this baked spaghetti truly unforgettable.
- 12 ounces spaghetti: Your pasta foundation, cooked al dente for just the right bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the beef and onions beautifully.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides hearty, savory flavor and satisfying texture.
- 1 small onion, diced: Offers sweetness and depth when sautéed with beef.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth and boldness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that ties all the flavors together.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances every component of the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and balances the richness.
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce: The saucy heart of the recipe, bringing tangy tomato goodness.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the spaghetti and cheese mixture for that perfect baked texture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty notes that elevate the dish.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to gooey, stretchy perfection on top and inside.
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese or cottage cheese: Brings creamy richness and moisture.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): For a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness when serving.
How to Make Baked Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spaghetti
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F so it’s ready to work its magic. Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture—firm yet tender. Drain it well and set it aside to keep things moving smoothly.
Step 2: Cook the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and add ground beef and diced onion. Sauté until the beef is browned and the onions soften, about 6 to 8 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper as the flavors meld beautifully. Pour in the marinara sauce and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes to develop a rich, savory base.
Step 3: Mix Spaghetti with Eggs and Parmesan
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs and grated Parmesan cheese—this blend helps bind the noodles and cheese into a cohesive, creamy layer once baked. Toss in the cooked spaghetti, coating the strands evenly so every bite will pop with flavor and bind perfectly in the bake.
Step 4: Layer the Ingredients
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Spread half of your spaghetti mixture across the bottom, then layer half of your meat sauce atop it. Dollop half the ricotta cheese here and there over the sauce, then sprinkle half the shredded mozzarella. Repeat these layers—spaghetti, sauce, ricotta, mozzarella—building a beautiful, hearty casserole ready for baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes to warm through and meld flavors. Then remove the foil and bake another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese bubbles and turns a gorgeous golden brown. Let the baked spaghetti rest 5 to 10 minutes before serving to let those flavors settle—patience pays off!
How to Serve Baked Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a refreshing burst of color and mild herbaceousness that cuts through the richness. Feel free to add cracked black pepper or even a drizzle of good olive oil to enhance the presentation and layer of flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair this cheesy baked spaghetti with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal that feels both indulgent and fresh. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty loaf is always a welcome companion to mop up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the baked spaghetti in individual ramekins for a charming, personal touch at dinner parties. Layer it in a clear glass casserole for a show-stopping visual or top with extra mozzarella and broil for an ultimate golden crust finish that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your baked spaghetti tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious, so don’t be shy about saving some for later.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully! Assemble and bake as usual, then let it cool completely. Wrap it securely in foil and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months, letting you enjoy hassle-free homemade comfort anytime.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to retain moisture, for 15 to 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but baking helps preserve the luscious texture and cheesy topping perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Baked Spaghetti Recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic, penne, rigatoni, or ziti also work well since they hold sauce beautifully and bake nicely in casseroles.
Is there a vegetarian version of this baked spaghetti?
Yes, swap out the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or chopped veggies like zucchini and bell peppers for a hearty meatless alternative that’s just as satisfying.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake later?
Definitely! Assemble the layers in your baking dish, cover, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This makes it a fantastic meal prep option for busy days.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
You can use cottage cheese or even cream cheese for a slightly different texture—both will still provide creamy richness to the dish.
How do I know when the baked spaghetti is fully cooked?
Look for bubbling sauce around the edges and a golden, lightly browned cheese crust on top. Also, the fragrance will be rich and inviting, signaling it’s ready to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Spaghetti Recipe is a total winner whenever you want hearty comfort food that pleases every palate. It’s simple to prepare but delivers on layers of delightful flavors and textures that you and your loved ones will keep coming back for. I can’t wait for you to try it, gather around the table, and enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite together!
Print
Baked Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This classic Baked Spaghetti recipe layers perfectly cooked spaghetti with a savory ground beef marinara sauce and a blend of creamy cheeses, creating a comforting and cheesy casserole that’s perfect for family dinners. With a golden bubbly topping and optional fresh parsley garnish, this dish offers rich Italian-American flavors and can be prepared ahead for convenience.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
Cheese and Eggs
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese or cottage cheese
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Cook Spaghetti: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is browned and onions are soft, approximately 6–8 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, cooking for an additional minute to release the aromas. Pour in the marinara sauce and let the mixture simmer gently for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Mix Cheese and Spaghetti: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, then add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix thoroughly. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl and toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the egg and cheese mixture.
- Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the spaghetti mixture evenly on the bottom. Spoon half of the meat sauce over the spaghetti layer. Dollop half of the ricotta cheese across the top, then sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layering process with the remaining spaghetti mixture, meat sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella, creating a second layer.
- Bake Covered: Cover the assembled casserole tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to heat through and meld flavors.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned on top, creating a perfect crust.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the baked spaghetti rest for 5–10 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before slicing and serving warm.
Notes
- This dish can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake, making it great for meal prepping or busy days.
- For added flavor, substitute ground Italian sausage for ground beef.
- Swap the ricotta cheese with cream cheese for a richer, creamier texture.
- Use fresh parsley or basil as garnish for a pop of color and freshness.
