Introduction to Baked Spaghetti
Imagine a dish that combines the comforting flavors of classic spaghetti with the rich, melted cheese and a crispy top typical of a casserole. That’s what you get with Baked Spaghetti. This delightful twist on the traditional pasta dinner is not only easy to prepare but also a surefire way to bring everyone to the table. Let’s explore how you can make this family favorite and turn your simple spaghetti night into a memorable culinary experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the steps, here’s a rundown of the ingredients:
- 1 pound of spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar of marinara sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon each of basil, oregano, and parsley (fresh or dried)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup of ricotta cheese
Preparing the Spaghetti
Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the spaghetti and cook until it’s just shy of al dente. Drain it and toss with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Make the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef or sausage, breaking it apart, and cook until browned. Add the onion, cooking until translucent, then the garlic for another minute or so. Stir in the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, herbs, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes.
Assembling the Baked Spaghetti
Now comes the fun part:
Mix: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the sauce, making sure the pasta is well coated.
Layer: In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom. Add half of the spaghetti mixture. Dollop spoonfuls of ricotta over the spaghetti. Then, sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
Repeat: Layer the remaining spaghetti over the cheese, then top with the remaining sauce. Finally, cover with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Baking and Serving
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Here’s a table to summarize the baking times for different oven types:
| Oven Type | Time |
|---|---|
| Conventional | 25-30 minutes |
| Convection | 20-25 minutes |
Let the baked spaghetti sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly, which will make slicing and serving much easier. This also helps the flavors to meld together.
🍽️ Note: If you're using Italian sausage, opt for hot or sweet based on your family's preference for spice.
Incorporating this baked spaghetti recipe into your dinner rotation could be the start of a new tradition. Not only does it offer a delicious twist on a family staple, but it also provides a cozy, comforting meal that's sure to be loved by both kids and adults alike. Enjoy the process of cooking together or delight in surprising your family with this delightful homemade casserole. Its rich layers, tender pasta, and a crispy cheese topping make it a go-to dish for any night of the week, especially when you want to feel the warmth and comfort of a home-cooked meal.
Can I make this ahead of time?
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Yes, you can prepare the spaghetti casserole in advance. Assemble it as directed but don’t bake it. Cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours before. When ready to cook, add a few extra minutes to the baking time since the dish will be cold.
What are some variations of this baked spaghetti?
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You can mix in vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, swap meat for a vegetarian option like ricotta or feta, or even try different types of cheese. Alfredo sauce or a cream-based sauce can also be used for a white baked spaghetti variation.
Can I freeze the baked spaghetti?
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Yes, baked spaghetti freezes well. You can freeze it either before or after baking. If freezing after baking, let it cool, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Bake it from frozen or thaw in the fridge before reheating.
