If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that tastes like it took hours but actually comes together quickly, this Baked Spaghetti Recipe is going to be your new weeknight hero. Creamy ricotta mingles with perfectly cooked spaghetti, savory Italian sausage or ground beef simmers in a rich marinara, and a golden, bubbly top of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese ties it all together. It’s the kind of dish that fills the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and brings everyone to the table with a smile. Plus, it’s easy to customize and even easier to love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, familiar ingredients make this Baked Spaghetti Recipe warm, rich, and utterly satisfying. Each one plays a crucial role in layering flavors, textures, and colors that transform basic elements into something truly special.
- 1 pound spaghetti, cooked and drained: Choose your favorite pasta brand and cook it just shy of al dente to avoid mushiness after baking.
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage: Adds a savory depth and meaty richness to the sauce base.
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce: Brings that bright, tangy tomato flavor that complements the cheese and meat perfectly.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Offers creamy softness that binds the pasta layers beautifully.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Melts wonderfully and creates that irresistible golden topping.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided: Adds a sharp, nutty tang and helps balance the richness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A handy blend of herbs to bring classic Italian flair.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and highlighting the other flavors.
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional): Adds a fresh, bright note and a pop of color when served.
How to Make Baked Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you assemble the layers. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to keep the pasta from sticking and ensure even baking. This simple prep sets the stage for a flawless bake.
Step 2: Cook the Meat Sauce
Cook the ground beef or Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through. This step is key for developing deep, savory flavor. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from getting oily. Then stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to perfectly balance the sauce’s brightness with meatiness.
Step 3: Mix the Pasta and Cheeses
In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with ricotta cheese, half the mozzarella, and half the Parmesan. This mixture is the creamy, cheesy foundation that keeps every bite luscious and cohesive. Make sure to toss everything well so each strand is coated evenly.
Step 4: Assemble in Layers
Spread half of the pasta-cheese mixture into the greased baking dish. Layer half of the meat sauce over it, then repeat with the remaining pasta mix and meat sauce. Layering not only looks attractive but ensures every forkful delivers a perfect balance of pasta, cheese, and meat.
Step 5: Top and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan over the top for that irresistible melty, bubbling crust. Cover the dish with foil to keep moisture in and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until everything is hot and bubbly. For an extra-special golden finish, remove the foil and broil for 2 to 3 minutes — just watch carefully so it doesn’t burn!
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Let your baked masterpiece rest for 5 minutes after coming out of the oven so it sets up a bit, making it easier to cut and serve. Sprinkle with freshly chopped basil or parsley to bring a fresh, vibrant touch that brightens the whole dish.
How to Serve Baked Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley are perfect finishes for this dish, offering a burst of color and a pop of fresh flavor that cuts through the richness. You can also add a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan or a drizzle of good olive oil for a little extra indulgence.
Side Dishes
This Baked Spaghetti Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread. The contrasting textures and flavors balance the creamy pasta, making your meal even more satisfying and well rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family meal, serve it straight from the baking dish with crisp plates and casual forks. Planning a dinner party? Consider individual portions baked in ramekins or mini casserole dishes for a charming, personal touch that will wow guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover baked spaghetti stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors meld and deepen, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble as usual in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking. For already baked leftovers, freeze in portion-sized containers and reheat as needed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered in the microwave or oven to keep the moisture locked in. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil and warm at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. For a bubbly top, remove foil in the last few minutes.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works beautifully, you can also use penne, rigatoni, or any pasta shape you love. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.
What if I want to make this vegetarian?
Skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini in its place. You can also use plant-based meat alternatives to keep that hearty, savory flavor.
Is ricotta cheese necessary?
Ricotta adds creaminess and helps bind the pasta layers, but you can substitute cottage cheese or even use a mixture of cream cheese and sour cream if you prefer a different texture.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the entire dish a day ahead, keep it covered in the fridge, and bake it just before serving. This makes it a great option for busy days or entertaining.
How do I get the top golden and bubbly?
Make sure to broil the dish uncovered for 2 to 3 minutes at the end of baking. Keep a close eye so it browns evenly without burning.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Spaghetti Recipe is everything you want in a comforting dinner — simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and a deliciously cheesy, saucy outcome that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeding family or inviting friends over, this dish is sure to become a cherished favorite. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience that perfect combination of flavors and textures for yourself!
Print
Baked Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Baked Spaghetti is a comforting Italian-American casserole combining cooked spaghetti with a savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted cheeses, all baked to bubbly perfection and topped with fresh herbs. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners and serves six generously.
Ingredients
Spaghetti and Cheese Mixture
- 1 pound spaghetti, cooked and drained
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare dish. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook the meat. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until browned throughout. Drain any excess grease to reduce fat, then add the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and let it simmer briefly to meld flavors.
- Mix spaghetti with cheeses. In a large bowl, combine the cooked and drained spaghetti with the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until evenly coated.
- Assemble casserole layers. Spread half of the spaghetti and cheese mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the meat sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti mixture and meat sauce, ensuring even distribution.
- Add cheese topping. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top layer for a cheesy crust.
- Bake covered. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to keep moisture in and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
- Broil for a golden finish. Remove the foil and place the dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes to brown and crisp the cheese topping. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Rest and garnish. Let the baked spaghetti rest for 5 minutes to set, then garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use Italian sausage for a spicier, more flavorful dish, or ground beef for a milder taste.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers.
- For a creamier texture, add a beaten egg to the ricotta cheese mixture.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
- To save time, use pre-cooked or frozen spaghetti noodles.
