Baked Spaghetti with Minced Meat and Cheese
Introduction
Baked Spaghetti is a classic comfort food dish, combining the beloved flavors of spaghetti, rich meat sauce, and melted cheese into a satisfying casserole. This hearty and crowd-pleasing recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: The recipe utilizes simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it ideal for cooks of any level.
- Flavorful: The combination of savory meat sauce, tender spaghetti, and gooey cheese creates a delicious and irresistible flavor profile.
- Crowd-pleasing: This dish is perfect for feeding a large family or group of friends.
- Make-ahead option: Prepare the casserole ahead of time and bake it when ready, making it convenient for busy days.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
How to Make Baked Spaghetti
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the meat: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or sausage over medium heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent.
- Create the sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti and meat sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the spaghetti mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- Use quality ingredients: Choose a good quality ground beef or Italian sausage, as well as flavorful tomatoes and cheese for the best taste.
- Don’t overcook the spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti until it is al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs and spices to your preference.
- Add more vegetables: You can incorporate additional vegetables into the meat sauce, such as chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Add an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5-10 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Main course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Can be adapted for gluten-free or vegetarian diets
Notes
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
- Vegetarian option: Replace the ground meat with a plant-based alternative or additional vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses such as provolone, ricotta, or a blend of your favorites.
- Can I freeze baked spaghetti? Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking or freeze leftovers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed or reheat individual portions in the microwave.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Related Recipes
If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:
- Lasagna
- Baked Ziti
- Mac and Cheese
Conclusion
Baked Spaghetti with Minced Meat and Cheese is a comforting and satisfying dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With its easy preparation and crowd-pleasing flavors, it’s a perfect meal for any occasion. Try this recipe and enjoy a taste of classic Italian-American comfort food!
