Baked spaghetti is a comforting classic, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. This guide provides a step-by-step recipe for creating a truly delicious baked spaghetti, along with tips and variations to make it your own.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe serves 6-8 people. Feel free to adjust quantities based on your needs.
- 1 pound spaghetti: Choose your favorite brand.
- 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage): For a leaner option, use ground turkey or a mix.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Yellow or white onion works well.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds the best flavor.
- 2 (28 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes: Use high-quality crushed tomatoes for the best taste.
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce: Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A staple in Italian cooking.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Another essential Italian herb.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Adjust to your taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground pepper is preferred.
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese: Whole milk ricotta is recommended for creaminess.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Use a good quality mozzarella for melting.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, sharp flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Cook the Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to package directions. Drain and set aside. Don't overcook; you want it al dente.
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Brown the Meat: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef (or sausage) over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become.
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Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, meat sauce, and ricotta cheese. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
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Assemble and Bake: Pour the spaghetti mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
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Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
Tips for the Best Baked Spaghetti:
- Use fresh herbs: If possible, use fresh oregano and basil for a more vibrant flavor.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it later. Just cover it and refrigerate until ready to bake, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
- Different Meat Options: Experiment with different meats like Italian sausage, ground chicken, or even vegetarian crumbles.
Variations of Baked Spaghetti:
- Baked Spaghetti with Meatballs: Add pre-made or homemade meatballs to the sauce for a heartier dish.
- Vegetarian Baked Spaghetti: Omit the meat and add extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and eggplant.
- Creamy Baked Spaghetti: Stir in a cup of heavy cream or cream cheese to the sauce for extra richness.
Baked spaghetti is a versatile and delicious dish that's easy to customize to your liking. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients and flavors to create your perfect baked spaghetti recipe! Remember to share your creations and variations with us!
