Baked Spaghetti: A Cheesy, Comforting Classic
Baked spaghetti is a quintessential American comfort food that's both hearty and indulgent. This beloved casserole features layers of tender spaghetti, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese, all baked together until bubbly and golden brown. It’s a dish that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings or busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey, Italian sausage, or plant-based alternative)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
- Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the meat sauce: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let the sauce cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, for a deeper flavor.
- Assemble the casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Layer with cooked spaghetti, ricotta cheese mixture, and meat sauce. Top generously with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Bake the uncovered casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the meat sauce for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the meat sauce for a kick.
- Vegetarian option: Replace the ground meat with a plant-based protein like lentils, chickpeas, or crumbled tofu.
- Cheese it up: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone, cheddar, or fontina.
- Crunchy topping: Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the mozzarella before baking for a delightful crunch.
- Make it ahead: Prepare the meat sauce and ricotta cheese mixture in advance for a quicker weeknight meal. Assemble the casserole and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Leftovers: Baked spaghetti reheats well. Cover leftovers and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Baked spaghetti is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you're craving a classic comfort food or looking to experiment with different flavors, this recipe is a great starting point. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
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