There are some dishes that just transport you back to childhood, to simpler times filled with laughter and the comforting aroma of home cooking. For me, that dish is baked spaghetti. I vividly recall chilly autumn evenings when my mom would pull a bubbling casserole dish from the oven, its cheesy top golden brown and the rich scent of tomatoes and herbs filling our kitchen.
The anticipation was always palpable! This wasn’t just any spaghetti; it was a layered masterpiece, a symphony of flavors and textures. Over the years, I’ve perfected my own version, simplifying the steps without sacrificing that nostalgic taste.
Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for truly Easy Baked Spaghetti, a dish so effortlessly delicious it will become an instant family favorite in your home too. It embodies everything I love about classic comfort food: approachable, hearty, and utterly satisfying. Get ready to create new memories around a pan of this incredible pasta bake!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Easy Baked Spaghetti recipe truly stands out as a weeknight hero and a weekend crowd-pleaser. Why will you fall head over heels for this particular spaghetti bake? First and foremost, its simplicity is a game-changer.
You don’t need a culinary degree to master this dish; just follow a few straightforward steps, and you’ll have a show-stopping meal on your table. Forget the endless stirring and juggling of multiple pans. This recipe streamlines the process, bringing maximum flavor with minimal fuss.
Furthermore, it offers incredible versatility. You can adapt it to whatever ingredients you have on hand, making it a fantastic budget-friendly option. This isn’t just about convenience; it’s about delivering a taste experience that satisfies everyone.
Beyond its ease, this Easy Baked Spaghetti provides an unparalleled level of comfort. Each forkful brings together tender spaghetti, a rich, savory meat sauce, and gooey, melted cheese. It is the epitome of comfort food, warming you from the inside out.
Moreover, it’s a fantastic make-ahead meal. Prepare it in advance, pop it in the fridge, and bake it when you are ready to serve. This flexibility makes dinner planning so much smoother, especially on busy days.
You will find that leftovers are just as delightful, if not more so, as the flavors meld and deepen overnight. This comforting baked spaghetti is also a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike, ensuring clean plates and happy faces around your dining table.
The sheer joy of pulling a golden, bubbling dish of this delicious Easy Baked Spaghetti from the oven is an experience in itself. It is a dish that promises satisfaction, comfort, and a touch of homemade magic every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these simple ingredients to create your scrumptious Easy Baked Spaghetti. Each component plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor that make this dish so special.
- 1 pound (450g) dried spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound (450g) lean ground beef
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup water or beef broth
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
Substitutions & Variations
This Easy Baked Spaghetti recipe is incredibly forgiving and adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or what you have available. Experimenting with different ingredients can lead to exciting new flavor profiles while still maintaining the beloved essence of this comforting dish. Don’t hesitate to get creative in your kitchen!
For the protein, if ground beef isn’t your preference, consider ground chicken or turkey for a lighter alternative. Both options absorb the rich tomato flavors beautifully, creating a equally delicious baked spaghetti. Alternatively, for a heartier texture, you could use Italian-style beef sausage (casings removed) which adds a wonderful depth of flavor and a slight spice.
For a completely vegetarian version of this Easy Baked Spaghetti, simply omit the meat entirely or substitute it with plant-based ground crumbles. Sautéing mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini with the onion and garlic also adds fantastic flavor and nutrients, making it a robust meatless meal. Consider adding a can of drained and rinsed lentils to the sauce for an extra protein boost and earthy flavor.
When it comes to the cheese, the possibilities are vast. While mozzarella and Parmesan are classics for this simple baked spaghetti, you could easily swap in provolone for a sharper, meltier finish. A blend of Italian cheeses, often found pre-shredded, also works wonders, introducing a more complex cheese profile.
For an extra creamy layer, consider incorporating a small amount of cream cheese into the ricotta mixture; it adds an undeniable richness. If you don’t have ricotta, a similar amount of cottage cheese can serve as an excellent substitute, providing that same creamy, tangy element to your baked spaghetti. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid from the cottage cheese if it’s particularly watery.
The sauce base also offers room for personalization. If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend the crushed tomatoes before adding them. For a chunkier texture, fire-roasted diced tomatoes can add a smoky depth and more body.
Spice it up further by increasing the red pepper flakes or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. Incorporating a splash of red wine into the meat sauce as it simmers can elevate the flavor significantly, adding a sophisticated note to your Easy Baked Spaghetti. For an herbal twist, try fresh oregano or basil in place of dried, or even a blend of Italian herbs.
A touch of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes if you find your sauce too tart. Remember, these variations simply enhance the core deliciousness of your Easy Baked Spaghetti, making it truly your own.
This Easy Baked Spaghetti recipe is incredibly forgiving and adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or what you have available. Don’t hesitate to get creative in your kitchen! If you want to try something different, check out this recipe for Easy Homemade Garlic Knots which pairs perfectly with any pasta dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these clear steps to create your perfect pan of Easy Baked Spaghetti. This systematic approach ensures a flawless result every time, making the cooking process enjoyable and stress-free.
- Cook the Spaghetti: First, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. This typically takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the spaghetti well and set it aside. Do not rinse the spaghetti, as the starch helps the sauce cling.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and crumbled. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté Aromatics: Next, add the chopped onion to the skillet with the ground beef. Sauté until the onion softens and becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and water (or beef broth). Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for at least 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Stir occasionally. This simmering step is crucial for developing the rich taste of your Easy Baked Spaghetti.
- Make the Ricotta Mixture: While the sauce simmers, in a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, chopped fresh parsley, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Preheat Oven & Assemble: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer the Spaghetti: Spread half of the cooked spaghetti evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Add Ricotta Layer: Spoon dollops of the ricotta mixture over the spaghetti layer. Use the back of the spoon to gently spread it out as much as possible, covering the spaghetti.
- Add Meat Sauce Layer: Carefully spread half of the meat sauce over the ricotta layer.
- Add Mozzarella: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the meat sauce.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers: the remaining spaghetti, followed by the remaining meat sauce, and then the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. For an extra golden crust on your Easy Baked Spaghetti, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Brown the Cheese: Uncover the dish and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the Easy Baked Spaghetti from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve neatly. Enjoy your delicious homemade spaghetti bake!
Pro Tips for Success
Achieving the perfect Easy Baked Spaghetti involves more than just following the steps; a few expert tips can elevate your dish from good to absolutely outstanding. Pay attention to these details, and you’ll consistently create a winning meal.
- Don’t Overcook the Spaghetti: Cook your spaghetti until it’s just al dente, meaning it still has a slight bite. Remember, it will continue to cook in the oven, so slightly undercooked is better than mushy. Overcooked pasta loses its desirable texture in a baked dish. This ensures a firm, satisfying base for your baked spaghetti recipe.
- Drain Ground Beef Thoroughly: After browning your ground beef, ensure you drain any excess fat completely. This prevents your sauce from becoming greasy and heavy, allowing the rich tomato and herb flavors to shine through in your Easy Baked Spaghetti. A cleaner sauce makes for a more enjoyable eating experience.
- Simmer the Sauce for Flavor: Don’t rush the simmering step for the meat sauce. Allowing it to simmer for at least 15-20 minutes (or even longer, if you have time!) lets the flavors meld and deepen beautifully. A well-developed sauce is the heart of any great baked spaghetti. This patient approach truly unlocks the potential of your ingredients.
- Season Every Layer: Taste and adjust seasoning at each stage – the meat, the sauce, and the ricotta mixture. Proper seasoning throughout builds complex flavors that make your Easy Baked Spaghetti truly exceptional. Don’t be shy with salt and pepper.
- Don’t Skip the Egg in Ricotta: The egg in the ricotta mixture acts as a binder. It helps the ricotta set during baking, preventing it from becoming too watery or runny and ensuring a creamy, stable layer in your simple baked spaghetti. This small addition makes a big difference in texture.
- Resting is Key: After baking, resist the urge to cut into your Easy Baked Spaghetti immediately. Allowing it to rest for 10-15 minutes helps the layers set and prevents the dish from falling apart when you serve it. This results in cleaner slices and a more appealing presentation.
- Cover for Even Baking: Initially covering the baking dish with foil prevents the top layer of cheese from browning too quickly and helps the internal temperature rise evenly. Uncovering it later allows for that beautiful golden-brown, bubbly cheese crust that everyone loves on their baked spaghetti.
Achieving the perfect Easy Baked Spaghetti involves more than just following the steps; a few expert tips can elevate your dish from good to absolutely outstanding. To enhance your baking skills further, you might want to consider this delicious Melt in Your Mouth Chicken for a complete meal experience.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Having leftovers of this delicious Easy Baked Spaghetti is a treat! Proper storage and reheating ensure you can enjoy its comforting flavors for days to come. This makes the dish an excellent choice for meal prep or feeding a family throughout the week.
For immediate storage, allow the baked spaghetti to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. If you leave it hot, condensation will build up, potentially making the pasta soggy. Once cooled, store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This ensures the freshness and safety of your hearty baked spaghetti.
If you’ve made a large batch of Easy Baked Spaghetti and wish to store it for longer, freezing is an excellent option. For individual portions, transfer slices into freezer-safe containers. For the entire dish, you can either wrap the baking dish tightly with several layers of plastic wrap and then foil, or transfer it to a large freezer bag.
Frozen baked spaghetti will maintain its quality for up to 2-3 months. Label your containers with the date to keep track.
When reheating, several methods work well. For individual servings from the refrigerator, the microwave is your quickest option. Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-4 minutes, or until thoroughly heated through. You might need to add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.
To reheat a larger portion of chilled Easy Baked Spaghetti, the oven is ideal. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the spaghetti in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil to prevent drying, and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly throughout. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes if you prefer a crispier cheese topping.
Reheating from frozen requires a slightly longer time. You can either thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or bake it directly from frozen. If baking from frozen, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until heated through. Uncover for the last 10-15 minutes to brown the cheese. This simple baked spaghetti re-heats wonderfully, making it a fantastic grab-and-go meal option.
What to Serve With This Recipe
This Easy Baked Spaghetti is a complete meal in itself, hearty and satisfying. However, pairing it with a few simple sides can elevate the dining experience, adding freshness, crunch, and balance. Think about complementary flavors and textures that won’t overpower the star of the show.
A crisp, green salad is always a fantastic accompaniment to any rich pasta dish. A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette, perhaps a lemon-herb dressing, cuts through the richness of the cheese and meat sauce in your Easy Baked Spaghetti. You can add cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, or some thinly sliced red onion for extra texture and flavor. This fresh contrast is truly delightful.
Garlic bread or cheesy garlic bread is practically a non-negotiable side for any spaghetti dish, and this baked spaghetti is no exception. Its warm, buttery, and garlicky goodness provides the perfect vehicle for soaking up any extra sauce. Plus, who can resist that irresistible aroma? A simple baguette, sliced and toasted with butter and garlic powder, also works beautifully and is quick to prepare.
Steamed or roasted vegetables offer another excellent pairing, adding vital nutrients and vibrant color to your meal. Consider broccoli florets, green beans, or asparagus, lightly seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness and a slight caramelization, which complements the savory notes of the Easy Baked Spaghetti. A simple side of grilled zucchini or bell peppers also provides a nice smoky flavor contrast.
For those who enjoy a glass of wine with their dinner, a medium-bodied red like a Merlot, Chianti, or a Zinfandel would pair wonderfully with the rich tomato and beef flavors of this comforting baked spaghetti. The acidity and fruit notes in the wine can help cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing the overall enjoyment of your meal. No matter what you choose, these accompaniments will turn your Easy Baked Spaghetti into a truly memorable dining experience.
This Easy Baked Spaghetti is a complete meal in itself, hearty and satisfying. To complement your dish, consider serving it alongside a French Onion Chicken Orzo Casserole which brings a delightful mix of flavors to the table.
FAQs
Can I make this Easy Baked Spaghetti ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Easy Baked Spaghetti is an ideal make-ahead meal. You can assemble the entire dish up to two days in advance.
Simply cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature slightly. Then, proceed with the baking instructions as usual, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time to ensure it heats through completely. This preparation makes it a perfect dish for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
What kind of spaghetti is best for baked spaghetti?
For this Easy Baked Spaghetti, traditional thin spaghetti or regular spaghetti works wonderfully. The key is to cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Avoid using very thin pasta like angel hair, as it can become mushy during the baking process.
Likewise, thicker pastas like bucatini might absorb too much sauce and become overly dense. Stick to standard spaghetti for the best texture in your simple baked spaghetti.
Can I add vegetables to the meat sauce?
Yes, certainly! Adding vegetables to the meat sauce is a fantastic way to boost nutrition and flavor in your Easy Baked Spaghetti. Finely diced carrots, celery, bell peppers, or mushrooms are excellent choices.
Sauté them along with the onion and garlic until softened before adding the ground beef. Spinach can also be stirred into the sauce during the last few minutes of simmering, or mixed into the ricotta layer for a vibrant green addition. These additions make your baked spaghetti even more wholesome.
How do I prevent the spaghetti from drying out?
To prevent your Easy Baked Spaghetti from drying out, ensure you have sufficient sauce. If your sauce seems too thick, add a little extra water or broth before layering. Additionally, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil for the initial part of the baking process.
This traps moisture, allowing the pasta to cook without drying. Only uncover for the last 10-15 minutes to achieve that beautiful golden-brown, bubbly cheese topping. Resting the dish after baking also helps the moisture redistribute throughout this comforting baked spaghetti.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Definitely! While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices for this Easy Baked Spaghetti, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp cheddar can add different flavor profiles and melting characteristics.
A blend of Italian cheeses often works well, too. For the ricotta layer, cottage cheese is a common substitute if you don’t have ricotta on hand. This versatility is part of what makes this baked spaghetti recipe so appealing.
Easy Baked Spaghetti is often considered a quintessential comfort food that brings together the flavors of pasta, cheese, and sauce in a warm, inviting dish. This beloved recipe combines familiar ingredients in a way that evokes nostalgia and is perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners, offering both simplicity and heartiness that resonates with many.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Please note: These are estimated values and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient choices. This information is provided for general guidance for one serving of Easy Baked Spaghetti.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 550 kcal |
| Total Fat | 25g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Cholesterol | 90mg |
| Sodium | 850mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5g |
| Total Sugars | 8g |
| Protein | 35g |
Easy Baked Spaghetti
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Easy Baked Spaghetti is a comforting, layered pasta dish featuring spaghetti, a rich meat sauce, and gooey cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
1 pound (450g) Dried Spaghetti
1 tablespoon Olive Oil
1 pound (450g) Lean Ground Beef
1 large Yellow Onion, finely chopped
3 cloves Garlic, minced
1 (28-ounce) can Crushed Tomatoes
1 (15-ounce) can Tomato Sauce
1/2 cup Water or Beef Broth
2 teaspoons Dried Oregano
1 teaspoon Dried Basil
1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper, to taste
1 (15-ounce) container Ricotta Cheese
1 large Egg
1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Parsley
1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese, plus more for topping
2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese, divided
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat
- Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute
- Simmer the Sauce: Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and water or broth. Stir in oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes
- Make the Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, parsley, and 1/2 cup Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper
- Preheat Oven & Assemble: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish
- Layer the Spaghetti: Spread half of the spaghetti in the baking dish
- Add Ricotta Layer: Spoon ricotta mixture over the spaghetti, spreading it out
- Add Meat Sauce Layer: Spread half of the meat sauce over the ricotta
- Add Mozzarella: Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella over the meat sauce
- Repeat Layers: Repeat with remaining spaghetti, meat sauce, and mozzarella. Top with extra Parmesa
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes
- Rest and Serve: Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving
Notes
Allow leftovers to cool before storing in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg