Introduction
This delightful spaghetti bake combines hearty ingredients into a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. With the rich flavors of marinara, ground beef, and plenty of cheese, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. It’s easy to prepare and can even be made ahead of time, making it a fantastic option for busy nights.
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
Now you are ready to savor this scrumptious spaghetti bake!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until it is al dente. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground chuck. Brown the beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once the meat is browned, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
Step 4: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In the same skillet, add the olive oil and unsalted butter. Once the butter has melted, add the diced yellow onion. Sauté the onion until it is softened and translucent, approximately 4-5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and continue to cook for an additional 30 seconds to release the fragrance.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Return the browned ground beef to the skillet. Pour the marinara sauce over the beef and add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil. Stir all ingredients together to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Toss Spaghetti with Sauce
Add the cooked spaghetti to the meat sauce in the skillet, tossing everything together to ensure that the pasta is well coated in the sauce.
Step 7: Layer in Baking Dish
Transfer half of the spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese over the first layer. Repeat this process with the remaining spaghetti mixture and top with the remaining cheeses.
Step 8: Cover and Bake
Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 9: Uncover and Continue Baking
After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 10 minutes. This will help the cheese to melt and become bubbly.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, garnish the dish with the remaining 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil for added flavor and freshness.
Notes
Substitution Options
Ground chicken or turkey can be used instead of ground chuck for a leaner option.
Cheese Variations
Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends; however, mozzarella and Parmesan create a classic flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or bake until warmed through.
Cook techniques
Boiling Pasta
Cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente, which means it should be firm to the bite. Drain and set aside.
Browning Meat
Brown the ground chuck in a skillet over medium heat, using a wooden spoon to break it up. This step helps to develop flavor.
Sautéing Aromatics
Sauté diced onion in olive oil and butter until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook briefly to preserve its flavor.
Simmering
Simmer the meat and sauce mixture, allowing the flavors to meld together. This is an essential step for depth of flavor.
LAYERING
Layer the spaghetti mixture with cheese in the baking dish, ensuring even distribution for proper melting and flavor throughout.
Baking
Cover and bake the dish first, then uncover to allow the cheese to melt and bubble for a delicious topping.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground chicken or turkey can be used as alternatives to ground chuck.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
You can substitute the ground meat with plant-based alternatives or skip the meat altogether.
What if I don’t have fresh basil?
Dried basil can be used instead, but add it sparingly as it can be more potent.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
While freshly shredded cheese melts better, pre-shredded cheese can also be used for convenience.
How long can leftovers be stored?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Conclusion
This spaghetti bake dish is a delicious and satisfying meal, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. The combination of ground beef, marinara sauce, and cheesy layers creates a comforting and hearty meal that everyone will enjoy.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Spaghetti Bake
Substitute the ground beef with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini for a delicious vegetarian option. Use the same marinara sauce and cheese for a hearty dish.
Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake
Replace the marinara sauce with a creamy Alfredo sauce. Use cooked shredded chicken instead of ground beef and add broccoli for a nutritious twist.
Southwestern Pasta Bake
Incorporate black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes into the spaghetti mixture, and season with taco seasoning. Top with a blend of Mexican cheese for a southwestern flavor.
Meatball and Spaghetti Bake
Use pre-made meatballs instead of ground beef. Layer the meatballs on top of the spaghetti mixture and cover with marinara sauce and cheese for an extra hearty bake.
One-Pot Spaghetti Bake
Combine all ingredients in a large oven-safe pot, including uncooked spaghetti, and bake together. This saves on cleanup and creates a delicious one-pot meal.
Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Bake
Mix in sautéed spinach and artichoke hearts into the spaghetti before layering with cheese. This adds a unique flavor and is a great way to include veggies.
