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Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Casserole

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Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Description

Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender spaghetti, a rich and savory meat sauce, and layers of gooey melted cheese baked until golden and bubbly. This family-favorite casserole delivers everything you love about classic spaghetti with the satisfying texture of a baked pasta dish. The spaghetti is tossed with a flavorful tomato sauce made with seasoned ground beef, onions, garlic, and Italian herbs before being layered with creamy mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. As it bakes, the cheese forms a beautifully golden crust while the inside stays creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, meal prep, or feeding a hungry crowd, this casserole is simple to prepare and can even be made ahead of time. Pair it with garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete meal that’s guaranteed to become a regular on your dinner table.

Ingredients For the Pasta

  • 12 ounces spaghetti
  • 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Meat Sauce

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Cheese Layer

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup ricotta cheese (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

For Garnish

  • Fresh thyme or parsley
  • Extra Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to the package directions. Drain well and toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.

Step 3: Add the Aromatics

Stir in the diced onion and cook for about 4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Season the Sauce

Add the tomato paste, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir well and simmer for 10–15 minutes.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom, then add half of the spaghetti.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Spread half of the ricotta (if using), then sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan over the spaghetti.

Step 7: Repeat the Layers

Add the remaining spaghetti, top with the rest of the meat sauce, and finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Step 8: Bake

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.

Step 9: Rest

Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold together when served.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped parsley or fresh thyme and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot with garlic bread or a fresh garden salad.

Tips & Notes

  • Cook the spaghetti just until al dente so it doesn’t become too soft while baking.
  • Freshly grated mozzarella melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables.
  • Substitute Italian sausage for ground beef for a richer flavor.
  • Prepare the casserole up to a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze the baked casserole for up to 3 months and thaw overnight before reheating.

Q&A

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it completely, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I use another pasta shape?
Absolutely. Penne, rigatoni, rotini, or ziti all work well.
How do I keep the pasta from drying out?
Be sure the pasta is well coated in sauce and don’t overbake the casserole.
Can I make it meatless?
Yes. Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or your favorite plant-based meat substitute.
What can I serve with it?
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, or garlic green beans make excellent side dishes.

Servings

Serves: 8 people

Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 510
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 760mg
    Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a rich, hearty pasta bake loaded with tender spaghetti, savory meat sauce, and layers of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Baked until golden, bubbly, and irresistibly cheesy, it’s the perfect comfort-food dinner for family meals, potlucks, or make-ahead weeknight dinners. Every bite is packed with classic Italian-inspired flavor and gooey cheesy goodness.

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