Baked Spaghetti Recipe (with Video)

Baked Spaghetti Recipe: Baked spaghetti is a heartwarming twist on classic pasta, combining savory tomato sauce, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a melty, golden cheese topping baked to perfection.

Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, baked spaghetti is a crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and easy to prepare.

Here’s a complete step-by-step guide to making this delicious meal at home.

Ingredients Needed

To get started, gather the following ingredients:

• Spaghetti – 1 lb, uncooked
• Ground meat (beef, turkey, or sausage) – 1 lb, optional
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Onion – 1 medium, chopped
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Bell peppers – 1 cup, diced (optional)
• Tomato sauce – 24 oz can
• Diced tomatoes – 14 oz can
• Italian seasoning – 1 tbsp
• Salt and pepper – to taste
• Mozzarella cheese – 2 cups, shredded
• Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Optional Add-ons: Mushrooms, spinach, olives, red pepper flakes, or breadcrumbs.

Essential Kitchen Equipment

• Large pot for cooking pasta
• Large skillet for preparing sauce
• Baking dish (9×13 inch recommended)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Strainer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Baked Spaghetti

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Start by preparing all the ingredients to streamline the cooking process. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the bell peppers if using. Set aside all other ingredients, so everything is within easy reach.

Step 2: Cooking the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the spaghetti and cook until it reaches an al dente texture, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
3. Drain the pasta and set it aside in a colander. Do not overcook, as the pasta will continue cooking in the oven.

Step 3: Making the Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. If you’re adding bell peppers or mushrooms, stir them in at this stage.
4. Add the ground meat (if using) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, then sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
6. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to blend flavors.

Step 4: Combining Pasta and Sauce

Transfer the drained pasta to a large mixing bowl or return it to the pot. Pour the sauce over the pasta and gently toss to combine. Ensure each strand is coated with sauce, then taste to adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Preparing the Baking Dish

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
3. Spoon half of the sauced spaghetti into the baking dish, spreading it evenly to form the base layer.

Step 6: Adding Cheese Layers

1. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the first layer of spaghetti.
2. Cheese lovers can add more mozzarella or a blend of cheeses like cheddar or provolone for extra flavor.

Step 7: Layering for Extra Flavor (Optional)

For added depth, consider adding a second layer of ingredients:

• Spread a handful of spinach, mushrooms, or olives over the cheese.
• This optional layer will add richness and extra nutrition to the dish.

Step 8: Final Layer of Cheese and Toppings

1. Add the remaining spaghetti as the top layer and cover it with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
2. For added crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top.

Step 9: Baking the Spaghetti

1. Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
3. Check that the edges are browned and the cheese is fully melted.

Step 10: Letting It Cool

Allow the baked spaghetti to rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This cooling period helps the flavors meld and prevents burning when serving.

Step 11: Garnishing and Serving Suggestions

1. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and added freshness.
2. Serve with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips for Making the Perfect Baked Spaghetti

• Avoid Dryness: Add a splash of pasta water to the sauce to keep the spaghetti moist.
• Cheese Variation: Use a blend of cheeses like provolone, asiago, or fontina for more complex flavors.
• Prevent Sticking: Lightly toss the pasta with olive oil after draining to keep it from clumping.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze: Baked spaghetti can be frozen in individual portions for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F, covered, for 15-20 minutes, or microwave on medium power until warm.

Variations on the Classic Recipe

• Vegetarian: Use a vegetable-based sauce and add extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms.
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce and top with pepper jack cheese.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free spaghetti and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

FAQs about Baked Spaghetti Recipe

What ingredients do I need for baked spaghetti?

For a classic baked spaghetti dish, you’ll need spaghetti noodles, ground beef or sausage, marinara or tomato sauce, shredded cheese (mozzarella and Parmesan are popular), onions, garlic, and your favorite Italian herbs like basil and oregano.

How do I prepare baked spaghetti?

Start by cooking the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions. Meanwhile, cook the meat, onions, and garlic until browned, then add the marinara sauce. In a baking dish, layer the noodles, sauce, and cheese, repeating until the ingredients are used up. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Can I make baked spaghetti ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare baked spaghetti up to a day in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold.

How do I store and reheat baked spaghetti?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for convenience.

What are some tasty variations?

Try adding veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also use a combination of cheeses or swap the meat for plant-based alternatives.

Conclusion

Baked spaghetti is a versatile, satisfying dish that can easily adapt to your preferences and available ingredients. Its layered flavors and cheesy topping make it an ideal choice for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep. Enjoy experimenting with different cheeses, add-ins, and garnishes to create a custom version of this classic comfort food.