Cheesy Baked Spaghetti
Cheesy baked spaghetti is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines tender pasta with rich, gooey cheese and a flavorful meat sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this hearty casserole is sure to impress and leave everyone asking for seconds. With its golden crust and aromatic blend of spices, cheesy baked spaghetti not only delivers on taste but also creates unforgettable memories around the dinner table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil (optional)
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef; drain excess fat. Stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with salt, pepper, and half of the mozzarella.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the spaghetti, half of the meat sauce, and half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat layers.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of the casserole (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. For added flavor, use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-packaged.