Baked Spaghetti Recipe

Introduction

Baked spaghetti is a comforting and satisfying casserole, a delightful twist on the classic spaghetti and meatballs. Its popularity stems from its ease of preparation, customizable nature, and crowd-pleasing appeal. Often served at potlucks, family gatherings, or simply as a weeknight meal, baked spaghetti transforms a simple dish into a layered masterpiece, making it a culinary staple in many households.

Ingredients

The core ingredients for baked spaghetti include:

1 pound spaghetti
1 pound ground beef (Italian sausage or a vegetarian substitute like lentils can be used)
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
24-26 ounces jar of your favorite spaghetti sauce
15 ounces ricotta cheese
1 large egg
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Substitutions are possible. For example, a combination of ground beef and pork sausage offers a richer flavor profile. Marinara sauce from scratch can replace jarred sauce for a fresher taste. Cottage cheese can substitute ricotta, although it may alter the texture slightly.

Preparation Steps

Begin by preparing the sauce and meat. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the spaghetti sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. While the sauce simmers, cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain the spaghetti well. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until smooth and set aside.

Cooking Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti and the meat sauce. Toss to coat the spaghetti evenly. Spread half of the spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spoon the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the spaghetti layer. Sprinkle 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese over the ricotta cheese layer. Top with the remaining spaghetti mixture. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the spaghetti is heated through. If the cheese browns too quickly, tent the dish loosely with aluminum foil. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Baked spaghetti is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with a variety of sides. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or breadsticks are classic accompaniments for soaking up the delicious sauce. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal.

Tips and Common Mistakes

Several tips can elevate the baked spaghetti experience:

Don’t overcook the spaghetti: Al dente pasta holds its shape better during baking.
Drain the spaghetti thoroughly: Excess water can make the casserole soggy.
Don’t skip the ricotta cheese layer: It adds creaminess and richness.
Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of the sauce and cheese will significantly impact the overall taste.
Allow the casserole to rest before serving: This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to set slightly.

A common mistake is using too much sauce, which can result in a soupy casserole. Another is baking the spaghetti for too long, which can dry it out. Monitoring the cooking time and temperature is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Learning to prepare baked spaghetti opens a gateway to a world of comforting and adaptable dishes. Its satisfying flavor and customizable nature make it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a family dinner or a potluck contribution, baked spaghetti is sure to impress. Discover the joy of creating this classic dish and explore a wider range of cooking guides at foodrecipestory.com. Unleash culinary creativity and bring delightful flavors to life in the kitchen!