Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that combines the flavors of classic spaghetti with the convenience of a casserole. Perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings, this recipe layers pasta, rich meat sauce, and gooey cheese, all baked to perfection. It's an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish that will quickly become a staple in your home. Whether you're feeding a large group or prepping meals for the week, this casserole is a fantastic option.

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Ingredients:

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 lb Italian sausage
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (24 oz each) marinara sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb spaghetti
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil

Preparation:

Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.

Step 2:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, Italian sausage, and chopped onion until the meat is browned and the onion is soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3:
Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4:
While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 5:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, and dried basil. Mix until well combined.

Step 6:
Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer half of the cooked spaghetti over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the spaghetti, then top with half of the remaining meat sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti, ricotta mixture, and meat sauce.

Step 7:
Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Cooking Note:

To achieve the best texture, ensure the spaghetti is cooked al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Additionally, let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve.

Serving Suggestions:

Baked Spaghetti Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. For a touch of freshness, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. This dish also goes well with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot.

Tips:

1. Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. This makes it a great option for meal prep or busy evenings.
2. Customize the Protein: Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and sausage for a lighter version.
3. Add Veggies: Enhance the nutritional value by adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the meat sauce.

Prep Time:

30 minutes

Cooking Time:

45 minutes

Total Time:

1 hour 15 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 25g
• Sodium: 850mg

Conclusion

Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for any occasion. Combining the comforting elements of spaghetti and a rich, savory meat sauce with the convenience of a casserole, it's sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Easy to prepare and versatile, this recipe is a great addition to your weekly meal rotation. Enjoy the delicious layers of pasta, cheese, and sauce in every bite, and savor the satisfaction of a homemade meal that's both simple and delightful.

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