Baked Spaghetti Bliss: A Comforting Casserole Classic

Craving comfort food? This baked spaghetti recipe is pure bliss! Layers of meaty sauce, ricotta, & mozzarella baked to golden perfection. Get the easy recipe now!

May 20, 2025
By Zelia Thorne.

Jump to Recipe print

0 Out of 5 Based on: 0 Ratings.

Alright, let's dive headfirst into the world of baked spaghetti ! Seriously, who doesn't love a big, bubbly, cheesy casserole? It's like a warm hug on a plate.

Quick Hook

Ever crave something totally comforting and nostalgic? This baked spaghetti recipe is it! It's packed with savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and tons of melted mozzarella. Oh my gosh, it's so good!

Brief Overview

This dish is classic Italian-American comfort food. It's super easy to make, taking about 55 minutes. This recipe yields 6-8 servings. Perfect for a family dinner, or even a potluck.

Main Benefits

Packed with protein from the meat and cheese, this is one satisfying meal. It's great for a family gathering. What makes this recipe special? It's easily customizable and always a crowd-pleaser! Plus, who can resist that golden, cheesy topping?

Time to Gather 'Round!

You know? this recipe reminds me of growing up. my mom would make baked spaghetti every sunday. it was the ultimate family meal.

It's also the perfect recipe to make with the kids or your partner. let's get cooking!

Baked Spaghetti Bliss: A Comforting Casserole Classic Recipe Card

0.0 / 5 (0 Review)

Preparation time:20 Mins

Cooking time:35 Mins

Servings:6-8 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) spaghetti
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef (or Italian sausage)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce/794g) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce/425g) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 15 ounces (425g) ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups (225g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

• Boil spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and toss with olive oil.
• Brown ground beef (or sausage) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
• Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow flavors to meld.
• In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
• Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of the baking dish.
• Top with half of the spaghetti, then spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the spaghetti.
• Add the remaining spaghetti, then top with the remaining meat sauce.
• Sprinkle evenly with shredded mozzarella cheese.
• Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
• Let stand for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

The "Baked Spaghetti" Lineup: Ingredients You'll Need

Okay, let's get real. you'll need spaghetti, of course! also, ground beef, crushed tomatoes, ricotta, mozzarella, and a few seasonings.

I'll give you the exact amounts in a bit, but trust me, it's all pretty basic stuff.

Making Magic: Step-by-Step

First, cook the spaghetti. don't overcook it! it should be al dente. while the pasta is cooking, brown your ground beef.

Next, add your onions, garlic, and tomatoes. simmer that sauce until it's thick and flavorful. oh, and don't forget to season it!

Now, layer everything in a baking dish. spaghetti, ricotta, meat sauce, mozzarella. then, bake it until bubbly and golden brown.

Finally, let it rest for a bit before serving. this helps everything set up. serve with a side of garlic bread and a salad for a complete meal.

It's like "the brady bunch" on a plate – everyone loves it!

Tips and Tricks: The Secret to Success

Don't be afraid to experiment with the seasonings! add a little red pepper flakes for a kick. i prefer to use italian sausage instead of ground beef sometimes.

You could even add some veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers. honestly, this recipe is super versatile. have fun with it!

I also love a bit of browned garlic. Adding this step takes your meal to the next level!

This recipe is so much more than just a pasta dish! for example, let's say that you forgot to take your salmon out of the freezer.

Well, you can prepare the baked spaghetti and still have time to do an airfry frozen salmon fillet .

Time to eat!

Now, grab a fork and dig in! This baked spaghetti is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy, my friends!

Okay, let's dive into the heart of this baked spaghetti masterpiece! think of this section as your friendly roadmap to pasta perfection.

I have a couple of recipe outlines that have worked wonders for me over the years.

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Sorted!

First things first, we gotta gather our troops. Don't worry, it's not rocket science. Just a few key players to bring this baked spaghetti to life.

Main Ingredients: The Dream Team

• Spaghetti: 1 pound (450g) . Go for a good quality brand. Honestly, it makes a difference.
• Ground beef: 1 pound (450g) . Look for 80/20 for flavor, or leaner if you're feeling virtuous.
• Onion: 1 medium . Yellow or white, whatever you've got.
• Garlic: 2 cloves . Fresh is best, but jarred minced garlic will do in a pinch.
• Crushed tomatoes: 1 (28 ounce/794g) can . San Marzano are the gold standard, but any crushed tomatoes will work.
• Tomato sauce: 1 (15 ounce/425g) can . This adds a nice sweetness.
• Ricotta cheese: 15 ounces (425g) . Full-fat is my preference for maximum creaminess.
• Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup grated . The real stuff, not the powdery green can.
• Egg: 1 large . This helps bind the ricotta mixture.
• Mozzarella cheese: 2 cups (225g) shredded . Low-moisture, part-skim is your friend here. It melts beautifully.

Seasoning Notes: Spice Up Your Life

Okay, so the right seasoning can make or break a dish. For this baked spaghetti , we are going traditional.

• Essential: Dried oregano and basil. About 1 teaspoon and 1/2 teaspoon , respectively. Don't skip these.
• Flavor Enhancers: A pinch of red pepper flakes ( 1/4 teaspoon ) for a little kick. Garlic powder adds another layer of savory goodness.
• Aromatics: Don't forget salt and pepper! Seriously. Season to taste, but don't be shy.
• Substitution: No oregano? Italian seasoning will do in a pinch.

Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple

Listen, you don't need fancy gadgets for baked spaghetti . Here's the bare minimum.

• Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
• Large skillet: For browning the meat and making the sauce.
• 9x13 inch baking dish: The star of the show!
• Colander: For draining the spaghetti.
• Common Household Alternatives: Don't have a 9x13 pan? A similar-sized casserole dish will work just fine. I once used two smaller pans because that's all I had, and it was still great.

Remember, cooking should be fun! so gather your ingredients, crank up the music, and get ready to make some baked spaghetti magic.

And hey, while you're at it, maybe you'll want to try whipping up some simple air fryer salmon to enjoy as a pre-dinner appetizer or a light side.

Or, if you're feeling adventurous, you could even try making air fryer salmon and potatoes for a complete meal! i'm just sayin'.

.. the possibilities are endless! you can use seasoning for salmon air fryer , or even smoked salmon in air fryer .

It will take a short air fryer salmon cooking time , it is easy air fry salmon recipes . you can even bake salmon in air fryer or airfry frozen salmon fillet .

I promise it's easier than salmon fillet in air fryer or bake salmon in air fryer , and the result is surprisingly delicious.

Alright, let's dive into this Baked Spaghetti recipe. Honestly, it's comfort food at its finest. Kinda like watching reruns of "Friends" on a rainy day. Trust me, you'll love it!

Cooking Method: Baked Spaghetti Bliss

Ever crave something warm, cheesy, and just plain good? You know, like grandma used to make? Well, this baked spaghetti is it. Forget fancy. This is about pure, unadulterated deliciousness.

Prep Steps: Let's Get Organized!

Okay, first things first: the mise en place . Basically, get all your ingredients prepped and ready to go.

• Essential mise en place : Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the cheese. This saves time later.
• Time-saving organization tips : Measure out the spices and set them aside. Trust me, it helps.
• Safety reminders : Don't be a hero. Use oven mitts! We are baking something in the oven with a temperature of 350° F ( 175° C) .

Step-by-Step Process: Easy Peasy!

Don't worry, this is easier than you think.

1. Cook 1 pound (450g) of spaghetti until al dente .
2. Brown 1 pound (450g) of ground beef and sauté the onion and garlic.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and spices. Simmer for 15 minutes .
4. Mix ricotta, Parmesan, and an egg in a bowl.
5. Layer everything in a baking dish: sauce, spaghetti, ricotta, more spaghetti, more sauce.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake at 350° F ( 175° C) for 30- 35 minutes . It has to be the perfect temperature, not less, or more.

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Spaghetti

Okay, here's where we get fancy-ish.

• Expert techniques : Don't overcook the pasta! Al dente is key.
• Common mistakes to avoid : Soggy pasta ruins everything. Drain it well.
• Make-ahead options : You can assemble the casserole a day ahead. Just bake it when you're ready.

Air Fryer Salmon

Speaking of easy, have you ever tried airfry frozen salmon fillet ? honestly, it's a game-changer! you can even do smoked salmon in air fryer for a quick and tasty snack.

Air fryer salmon cooking time depends on the thickness, but usually around 12- 15 minutes at 400° f ( 200° c) .

My favorite seasoning for salmon air fryer is just salt, pepper, and a little garlic powder. a simple salmon fillet in air fryer recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal.

Check out other easy air fry salmon recipes . i've even tried air fryer salmon and potatoes - super easy and delicious.

Back to Baked Spaghetti

So, there you have it. baked spaghetti is a crowd-pleaser. give it a try and let me know what you think.

It might become your new family tradition. you know? like thanksgiving turkey or fourth of july fireworks!

Alright, let's dive deeper into this amazing baked spaghetti ! i want to share some extra tidbits to make sure yours turns out absolutely perfect.

Honestly, these are the things i've learned over the years, tweaking and perfecting this recipe!

Recipe Notes

This part is all about making your baked spaghetti shine! You know, it's about personalizing it and making it your own signature dish.

Serving Suggestions - Let's Plate This!

Okay, so picture this: a generous slice of bubbly baked spaghetti on a plate. but it doesn't stop there! how about a sprig of fresh basil for a pop of color? or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a tangy kick? presentation matters, right? as for sides, garlic bread is a must.

A simple green salad balances out the richness. and to drink? a nice glass of chianti will do the trick! you could also go with a crisp pinot grigio.

Storage Tips – Leftovers are Your Friend!

Refrigeration is key. if you have leftovers, let them cool completely. then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil.

They'll be good in the fridge for about 3-4 days. now, can you freeze baked spaghetti ? you bet! cut it into individual portions and wrap them well.

It'll last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. reheating is easy. just pop it in the oven at 350° f ( 175° c) until heated through.

Or, microwave it in a pinch. microwaving isn't perfect, but it does the job!

Variations – Let's Get Creative!

Want to lighten things up? use ground turkey instead of beef. or, add some veggies like bell peppers and zucchini to the sauce.

For a vegetarian version, skip the meat altogether and load up on mushrooms. need a gluten-free option? use gluten-free spaghetti and check all your other ingredients.

Honestly, baked spaghetti is super versatile, so feel free to experiment!

Nutrition Basics – Goodness in Every Bite

Okay, i'm not a nutritionist. but i can tell you that baked spaghetti is a good source of protein, thanks to the meat and cheese.

It also has carbs for energy, of course, from the pasta. and, it's got some veggies snuck in there! just remember to enjoy it in moderation.

Like everything else in life, balance is key.

Don't be intimidated by cooking! Baked spaghetti is a great way to bring the family together. So, get in the kitchen and have some fun! You got this!