Name: Easy Baked Spaghetti
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces of spaghetti; 1 pound ground beef or sausage; 1 jar (24 ounces) of marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

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Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time:

Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 40 min | Total Time: 50 min

how to make Easy Baked Spaghetti

Ingredients:

8 ounces of spaghetti
1 pound ground beef or sausage
1 jar (24 ounces) of marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, brown the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Add marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the meat in the skillet. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
In a large baking dish, layer half of the cooked spaghetti, followed by half of the meat sauce, and half of the ricotta cheese.
Repeat the layering with the remaining spaghetti, meat sauce, and ricotta.
Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

Make sure to cook the spaghetti until al dente so it doesn’t get mushy while baking.
You can add other veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Baked Spaghetti is a comforting dish that combines pasta, meat, and cheese in a delicious, hearty meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to please both kids and adults.

how to serve Easy Baked Spaghetti

Serve this dish with a side salad and garlic bread. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top adds a nice touch.

how to store Easy Baked Spaghetti

Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.

tips to make Easy Baked Spaghetti

Use whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier twist.
For a creamier texture, mix some heavy cream into the ricotta cheese.

variation

You can swap the ground beef or sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Vegetarian options are also great, using plant-based meat or adding more vegetables.

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 400
Protein: 20g
Carbs: 35g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g

Storage and Reheating

To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite ingredients. Add different types of cheese, use different sauces, or include spices that you love.

Disclaimer:

Cooking times may vary based on the oven and the specific ingredients used. Always ensure that meat is cooked thoroughly to a safe temperature.

why make this recipe

This Easy Baked Spaghetti is not only simple to make but also a delicious option for feeding a crowd. It comes together quickly and satisfies everyone’s cravings for a warm, cheesy pasta dish.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you have on hand!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and refrigerate it before baking.
Is it okay to skip the ricotta cheese?
Yes, feel free to leave it out or substitute it with cottage cheese if you prefer.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Yes, just replace the meat with vegetables or plant-based protein.
What can I serve with Baked Spaghetti?
A simple side salad and garlic bread pair very well!