Introduction
Baked spaghetti is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines hearty pasta with rich marinara sauce and melted cheese. This recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional spaghetti, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With a blend of ground beef, fresh herbs, and a cheesy topping, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 16 ounces dry spaghetti (1 box)
– 1 pound ground chuck (ground chicken or turkey can also be used)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (⅛ stick)
– 1 yellow onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 24 ounces marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil, divided
– 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
– ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
– Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Enjoy your delicious baked spaghetti, a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction in every bite!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain the beef and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In the same skillet, add the olive oil and butter. Once melted, add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Step 5: Combine Beef and Sauce
Return the browned beef to the skillet. Pour in the marinara sauce and add half of the chopped basil. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for a few minutes. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Mix in the Spaghetti
Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
Step 7: Layer in Baking Dish
Transfer half of the spaghetti mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan over the spaghetti. Repeat with the remaining spaghetti mixture and cheeses.
Step 8: Bake
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 9: Rest and Garnish
Remove from the oven and let the baked spaghetti rest for a few minutes. Garnish with the remaining chopped basil before serving.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked spaghetti with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Tips
This dish can be frozen before baking. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Adjusting for Dietary Needs
Feel free to substitute ground chicken or turkey if preferred. Use gluten-free spaghetti for a gluten-free option.
Cook techniques
Cooking Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dry spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Browning Ground Meat
In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground meat. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks, allowing it to brown evenly. Drain excess fat before adding other ingredients.
Sautéing Aromatics
In the same skillet, add olive oil and butter. Once melted, add diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds for a fragrant base.
Combining Ingredients
Return the browned meat to the skillet, pour in the marinara sauce, and add half of the basil. Stir thoroughly, then let it simmer briefly and season with salt and pepper for flavor enhancement.
Baking Pasta Dish
Layer half of the spaghetti mixture in a prepared baking dish, followed by half the cheese. Repeat with remaining ingredients. Cover with foil and bake until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with other pasta types such as penne or fusilli, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground chicken or turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef, while maintaining similar cooking methods.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze baked spaghetti?
Yes, you can freeze baked spaghetti. Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
What can I use instead of marinara sauce?
You can use any tomato-based sauce, such as marinara, arrabbiata, or homemade tomato sauce as a substitute, depending on your taste preference.
Conclusion
Baked spaghetti is a delightful and hearty dish that brings comfort to any table. With the combination of ground beef, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, this recipe creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. The addition of fresh basil adds a pop of flavor, making this baked pasta a truly enjoyable experience.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Baked Spaghetti
Substitute the ground beef with a mix of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.
Baked Spaghetti with Sausage
Replace the ground beef with Italian sausage for a spicy and savory twist that pairs beautifully with marinara sauce.
Cheesy Pesto Baked Spaghetti
Incorporate pesto into the sauce for an herbaceous flavor. Mix in a blend of ricotta and mozzarella for extra creaminess.
Spicy Baked Spaghetti
Add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a spicy kick, and top with pepper jack cheese for an additional layer of flavor.
Mexican Baked Spaghetti
Mix in black beans, corn, and taco seasoning into the meat sauce. Top with cheddar cheese and serve with salsa and sour cream.
Seafood Baked Spaghetti
Combine cooked shrimp or crabmeat into the pasta for a unique seafood twist. Pair with a white sauce for a rich and indulgent dish.
