Baked Spaghetti

Introduction: Craving a Cheesy, Comforting Pasta Dish That’s Easy to Share?

Ever wondered how to turn a simple plate of spaghetti into a crowd-pleasing, cheesy masterpiece? Baked Spaghetti is the answer! This dish takes classic spaghetti and transforms it into a warm, gooey casserole that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights at home. With layers of saucy beef, creamy cottage cheese, and melty mozzarella, it’s comfort food at its best. Ready to make a dish that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds? Let’s dive into this easy, delicious recipe!

Overview: Why Baked Spaghetti is Special

Baked Spaghetti is like a lasagna but simpler and just as comforting. It’s a hearty, cheesy casserole that combines tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and creamy layers for a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Here’s why it’s a winner:

• Time Requirement: About 20 minutes prep, 60-65 minutes baking, for a total of around 1.5 hours.
• Difficulty Level: Easy! Great for beginners or busy cooks looking for a make-ahead meal.
• Why It’s Unique: The combination of cottage cheese for creaminess, mozzarella for stretchy goodness, and a flavorful meat sauce makes this dish irresistible. It’s also versatile—perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.

This recipe is healthy (packed with protein and customizable with veggies), quick to prep, and super versatile. Let’s get cooking!

Essential Ingredients

This recipe serves 8 and uses pantry staples to create a rich, flavorful dish. Here’s what you’ll need for the original (1x) recipe:

• For the Spaghetti:
  • 1 (16-ounce) package spaghetti
  • 2 large eggs
  • ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 5 tablespoons butter, melted
• For the Meat Sauce:
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 (32-ounce) jar meatless spaghetti sauce
  • ½ teaspoon seasoned salt
• For the Layers:
  • 2 cups small curd cottage cheese
  • 5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

Why These Ingredients Matter

• Spaghetti: The base of the dish, providing a hearty, chewy texture that holds up to baking.
• Eggs, Parmesan, and Butter: Coat the spaghetti to create a rich, cohesive layer that binds together when baked.
• Ground Beef and Onion: Add savory flavor and texture to the sauce. The onion brings a touch of sweetness.
• Spaghetti Sauce: A meatless jarred sauce saves time while providing a tangy, tomatoey base.
• Seasoned Salt: Boosts the flavor of the meat sauce with a blend of spices.
• Cottage Cheese: Adds creaminess and a mild tang, making the dish feel like a lasagna.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into gooey, stretchy layers and a golden top.

Substitutions and Variations

• Spaghetti: Swap with linguine, fettuccine, or gluten-free pasta.
• Ground Beef: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
• Onion: Replace with 1 teaspoon onion powder in a pinch.
• Spaghetti Sauce: Use homemade marinara or crushed tomatoes with 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning.
• Cottage Cheese: Substitute with ricotta cheese for a classic lasagna vibe or cream cheese for extra richness.
• Mozzarella: Try provolone or a cheddar blend for a different flavor. Use dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.
• Butter: Swap with olive oil for a slightly different flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Baked Spaghetti is fun and straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfect casserole every time!

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
• Chop the onion and measure out the cheeses, butter, and sauce.

Tip: Prepping everything first makes assembly a breeze!

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
2. Cook Pasta: Add the 16-ounce package of spaghetti and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender but firm (al dente), about 12 minutes.
3. Drain: Drain the spaghetti in a colander and set aside.

Tip: Save a cup of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.

Step 3: Make the Meat Sauce

1. Cook Beef and Onion: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound ground beef and chopped onion. Cook and stir for 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and the onion is soft.
2. Drain Fat: Drain excess oil from the skillet to keep the sauce from being greasy.
3. Add Sauce: Stir in the 32-ounce jar of spaghetti sauce and ½ teaspoon seasoned salt. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.

Tip: Break up the beef with a wooden spoon as it cooks for an even texture.

Step 4: Coat the Spaghetti

1. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 eggs, ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 5 tablespoons melted butter.
2. Toss with Spaghetti: Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.

Tip: The egg mixture helps the pasta stick together and adds richness.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. First Layer: Spread half of the coated spaghetti in the greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Add Cheese and Sauce: Top with half of the cottage cheese (1 cup), 2 cups mozzarella, and half of the meat sauce.
3. Repeat Layers: Add the remaining spaghetti, cottage cheese, and meat sauce. (Save the last cup of mozzarella for later.)

Tip: Spread each layer evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.

Step 6: Bake

1. Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes.
2. Add Cheese: Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup mozzarella on top, and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.

Tip: If the cheese browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

• Let the baked spaghetti rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set for easier slicing.

Assembly: Building the Perfect Baked Spaghetti

Assembling Baked Spaghetti is like creating a cheesy, saucy work of art. Here’s how to put it together:

1. Start with the Base: Toss the cooked spaghetti with the egg, Parmesan, and butter mixture to create a rich, cohesive layer.
2. Layer Like a Pro: Spread half the spaghetti in the baking dish, then add cottage cheese, mozzarella, and meat sauce. Repeat for a second layer to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
3. Top It Off: Finish with a generous layer of mozzarella for that golden, bubbly crust.

Presentation Tips:

• Serve in squares or scoops using a large spoon or spatula.
• Garnish with extra Parmesan or chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.
• Pair with garlic bread or a simple Caesar salad for a complete meal.
• Use a clear baking dish to show off the layers when serving at a gathering.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Baked Spaghetti is perfect for leftovers or prepping ahead. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Storing Leftovers:
  • Let the casserole cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container.
  • Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, covered, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes. Add a splash of water or sauce to keep it moist.
• Make-Ahead Tips:
  • Assemble Ahead: Prepare the entire casserole (without the final mozzarella topping) up to 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate. Add the final cup of mozzarella before baking.
  • Sauce: Make the meat sauce up to 2 days ahead and store in the fridge.
  • Freezing: Assemble the casserole (without baking) or freeze leftovers. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking or reheating.

Tip: Cut into portions before freezing for easy reheating.

Recipe Variations

Baked Spaghetti is super versatile. Here are some fun ways to mix it up:

• Veggie-Packed: Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the meat sauce for extra nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
• Italian Sausage: Swap ground beef for Italian sausage (mild or spicy) for a bolder flavor.
• Creamy Twist: Add ½ cup ricotta or cream cheese to the cottage cheese layer for extra richness.
• Vegetarian: Skip the beef and use a plant-based meat or extra veggies like zucchini and eggplant.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti and double-check that your sauce is gluten-free.

Tip: Keep the layers simple to let the cheesy goodness shine, but don’t be afraid to experiment!

Conclusion: Time to Dig Into Comfort Food!

Congratulations—you’ve just made Baked Spaghetti, a cheesy, hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion! This recipe is easy, healthy, and so versatile you can customize it to your heart’s content. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Grab a fork, serve it up with your favorite sides, and enjoy the smiles around the table. What’s your favorite way to enjoy spaghetti? Share your ideas in the comments, and happy cooking!

Print

FAQs

Q: Is Baked Spaghetti healthy?
A: Yes! It’s high in protein from beef and cheese, and you can boost nutrition by adding veggies or using lean meat. Cottage cheese adds calcium, and you can use whole-grain pasta for extra fiber.

Q: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A: Absolutely! Try rigatoni, penne, or fettuccine. Just cook it al dente so it holds up during baking.

Q: How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?
A: Drain the beef well, don’t overcook the pasta, and let the casserole rest before serving to absorb any excess liquid.

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes! Skip the beef and use plant-based meat or veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant in the sauce.

Q: How long does it take to prep?
A: Prep takes about 20 minutes (cooking pasta and sauce), and baking takes 60-65 minutes. It’s quick to put together!

Q: Can I freeze Baked Spaghetti?
A: Yes! Freeze the assembled (unbaked) or baked casserole, wrapped tightly, for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking or reheating.