easy baked spaghetti recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best easy baked spaghetti recipe

I’ve been making this easy baked spaghetti recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s one of those classic dishes that’s been around for ages, but it never gets old.

The combination of tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese is just irresistible. I love that it’s so easy to make, too – just toss everything in a baking dish and let the oven do the work.

It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and it’s even better the next day as leftovers. Plus, it’s a great way to get some extra veggies into your diet – just add some frozen spinach or bell peppers to the sauce for an extra nutritional boost.

I like to serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a satisfying meal that everyone will love. My kids have grown up on this recipe, and they still ask for it all the time.

It’s just one of those comfort foods that never fails to put a smile on my face. I’ve tried making it with different types of pasta, but spaghetti is still my favorite – there’s something about the long strands that just makes it feel like a proper Italian meal.

And don’t even get me started on the cheese – I like to use a blend of mozzarella and parmesan for an extra burst of flavor.

Easy Baked Spaghetti

4.5 from 1020 votes

A simple and hearty baked spaghetti dish with a rich meat sauce and melted cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta and Sauce

1 pound spaghetti
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cheese Topping

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
3Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes, then drain and set aside.
4While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
6Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
7Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the beef mixture.
8Add the dried oregano, salt, and black pepper, and stir well.
9Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
10Combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce in the large pot, tossing gently until the pasta is evenly coated.
11Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
12Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the spaghetti, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese.
13Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are lightly golden.
14Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
9×13 inch baking dish
Colander
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 65mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and add sauteed mushrooms and bell peppers. You can also use any pasta shape you have on hand.

Watch Video Of How Easy Baked Spaghetti Works

This easy baked spaghetti recipe is a staple in our household – we love it for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike! One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it reheats – simply pop the leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until they’re hot and bubbly again.

You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave if you prefer. For serving ideas, try pairing this casserole with a simple green salad or some crusty garlic bread for a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Spaghetti

1. What type of pasta should I use?

I recommend using spaghetti or other long, thin pasta shapes for this recipe. It’s traditional in Italian cuisine and looks beautiful when served.

2. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes if you prefer! Just be sure to cook them down until they’re soft and pulpy before adding them to the sauce.

3. How long does this recipe take to prepare?

This recipe is quick and easy to make – just 30 minutes from start to finish!

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to assemble and bake the casserole.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check your ingredients carefully if you’re cooking for someone with celiac disease.

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