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Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Baked Spaghetti Casserole

  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Adaptable (Vegetarian and Gluten-Free options available)

Description

This Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make meal featuring al dente spaghetti layered with a savory meat and tomato sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends, it delivers rich flavors with minimal effort and is customizable to suit various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Primary Ingredients

  • 12 ounces spaghetti noodles, cooked al dente
  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Flavor Enhancers

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until just al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the meat sauce: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Add the ground beef or turkey, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned. Stir in the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes to meld the flavors.
  3. Combine pasta and sauce: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked spaghetti with the prepared meat sauce until all noodles are evenly coated and flavorful.
  4. Assemble the casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish. Spread half of the spaghetti mixture evenly into the dish, then sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella cheese on top. Add the remaining spaghetti mixture, followed by more mozzarella cheese and a final sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
  5. Bake to perfection: Bake the casserole uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook your pasta: Cook spaghetti slightly less than al dente as it will continue cooking in the oven.
  • Use fresh cheese: Shred your own mozzarella and Parmesan for better melt and flavor.
  • Let it rest: Allow the casserole to cool a bit before slicing to keep the layers intact.
  • Mix meat and sauce well: Ensuring the sauce coats every noodle adds consistent flavor throughout.
  • Add a crunchy topping: For extra texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 680 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: baked spaghetti casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, cheesy pasta bake, ground beef casserole, family dinner, one dish meal

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Find it online: https://savortrack.com/baked-spaghetti-casserole/