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Baked Beef Spaghetti: A Hearty and Comforting Dish

Baked Beef Spaghetti

Baked beef spaghetti is a classic Italian-American dish that offers a comforting and satisfying meal. This hearty combination of tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and al dente pasta, topped with gooey cheese, is sure to please the whole family. It's a perfect one-pan wonder that's easy to prepare and even easier to devour.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 white onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 (28-ounce) can San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Course: Main Course Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 30-35 minutes Total Time: 50-55 minutes Servings: 6

  1. Cook the pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the spaghetti until tender but still firm, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Brown the beef: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Soften the onion for about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Cook the ground beef until browned, stirring occasionally to break it apart. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the beef is browned and crumbly.
  3. Create the sauce: Add the crushed San Marzano tomatoes and Italian seasoning to the skillet with the beef. Let the mixture gently bubble for 15-20 minutes, or until it thickens. Stir in the chopped basil.
  4. Combine and bake: Combine the cooked spaghetti with the beef sauce in the skillet. If the mixture is too thick, add a little pasta water to loosen it up. Transfer to a large baking dish. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  5. Bake to perfection: Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Top with fresh parsley and serve right away.

Tips for the Perfect Baked Beef Spaghetti

  • For a richer flavor, use a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage.
  • For a spicy kick, sprinkle with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  • For extra creaminess, stir in a dollop of ricotta cheese to the sauce before baking.
  • Serve with crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.
  • To make this dish ahead of time, prepare the sauce and cook the pasta. Put the dish together and chill it until you're ready to bake. When baking, add 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

Baked beef spaghetti is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a side salad, garlic bread, or a steamed vegetable. It's perfect for sharing with friends and family at potlucks or gatherings.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Nutritional values may change based on the particular ingredients chosen.

Per serving:

  • Calories: 500-600
  • Protein: 30-40g
  • Carbohydrates: 50-60g
  • Fat: 20-30g

Baked beef spaghetti is a classic comfort food that is sure to satisfy your cravings. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it's a perfect weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for special occasions. Enjoy this delicious and hearty recipe!

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