5 Best Baked Spaghetti Recipes

If you’re looking to indulge in some comfort food or impress your guests at a dinner party, baked spaghetti is an excellent choice. This beloved dish is not only delicious but can be prepared in countless variations to suit any taste or dietary preference. In this article, we will explore 5 best baked spaghetti recipes, each bringing its unique twist to the table.

1. Classic Baked Spaghetti

The classic version of this dish remains a favorite for its straightforward preparation and timeless flavors. Here’s how you can make it:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 jar of marinara sauce
  • 8 oz spaghetti noodles
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¹⁄₂ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • Seasoning (salt, pepper, Italian herbs)
• Method:
  1. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs, then add the marinara sauce and let it simmer.
  3. Combine the cooked spaghetti with the beef sauce, an egg, and half of the cheeses in a bowl.
  4. Transfer this mixture to a baking dish, top with the remaining cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

📌 Note: Preheating the oven can ensure even cooking and a nice, bubbly cheese topping.

2. Spinach and Feta Baked Spaghetti

For those looking to add a bit of green to their dinner, this vegetarian-friendly version with spinach and feta is both hearty and delightful:

• Ingredients:
  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • ¹⁄₂ cup feta cheese
  • ¹⁄₂ cup ricotta cheese
  • ¹⁄₂ cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • Garlic, salt, and pepper
• Method:
  1. Cook spaghetti to al dente and set aside.
  2. In a pan, sauté garlic, then add spinach until wilted.
  3. Mix ricotta, milk, egg, salt, and pepper. Stir in spinach, feta, and spaghetti.
  4. Place in a baking dish, sprinkle additional feta on top if desired, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.

3. Creamy White Sauce Baked Spaghetti

If creamy, indulgent dishes are more your speed, this white sauce spaghetti bake is perfect:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 lb spaghetti
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese
  • ¹⁄₂ cup Romano cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt, pepper, and nutmeg
• Method:
  1. Cook spaghetti and drain.
  2. Warm cream and add Parmesan, Romano, garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until cheese melts.
  3. Combine with spaghetti, transfer to a baking dish, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly.

4. Spicy Chorizo and Pepper Baked Spaghetti

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this spicy chorizo version brings a kick to the traditional:

• Ingredients:
  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • ¹⁄₂ lb chorizo sausage
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • ¹⁄₂ tsp cumin
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or pepper jack)
• Method:
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Brown chorizo, then add peppers, onion, tomatoes, chili powder, and cumin.
  3. Combine with cooked spaghetti, place in a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake for 20-25 minutes.

🔥 Note: Adjust the spice level by choosing mild or hot chorizo and adding more or less chili powder.

5. Three-Cheese Baked Spaghetti

Lastly, for cheese lovers, here’s a recipe with an abundance of cheese varieties:

• Ingredients:
  • 1 lb spaghetti
  • 1 cup mozzarella
  • 1 cup fontina cheese
  • ¹⁄₂ cup Romano
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • ¹⁄₂ cup heavy cream
  • Olive oil, garlic, parsley
• Method:
  1. Cook spaghetti, then drain.
  2. Warm marinara sauce with cream, garlic, and olive oil.
  3. Mix cheeses together, reserving some for topping, and combine with spaghetti and sauce.
  4. Bake at 375°F (190°C) until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.

Each of these baked spaghetti recipes offers something unique, from the traditional to the inventive. The combination of sauce, pasta, and cheese creates a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re seeking a quick weekday dinner or an impressive dish for entertaining, these recipes provide endless opportunities for culinary creativity.

Can I make baked spaghetti ahead of time?

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Yes, baked spaghetti can be prepared in advance. Simply assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

How do I keep baked spaghetti from drying out?

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To prevent drying, ensure the pasta is al dente when cooked, and use enough sauce to keep the dish moist. Covering with foil during part of the baking process can also help retain moisture.

Can I freeze baked spaghetti?

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Yes, you can freeze baked spaghetti after assembling. Wrap tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.