This baked spaghetti recipe combines pasta, marinara sauce, and melted cheese for a comforting and satisfying meal. It’s an easy dish to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a delicious baked spaghetti ready in no time. Customize it with your favorite proteins or vegetables for added flavor.
Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Overview
This delightful dish combines the comforting flavors of pasta, marinara sauce, and a generous layer of melted cheese.
It’s a perfect meal for gatherings, offering a satisfying experience that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
The golden, bubbling cheese on top creates an inviting presentation that is hard to resist.
Ingredients That Shine
The beauty of cheesy baked spaghetti lies in its simple yet effective ingredients.
With just a handful of items, you can create a rich and satisfying meal.
Key components include spaghetti, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for that gooey, cheesy goodness.
Fresh basil adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness, elevating the dish to new heights.
This combination not only satisfies hunger but also warms the soul.
Preparation Steps
Preparing cheesy baked spaghetti is straightforward and can be done in a few simple steps.
Start by cooking the spaghetti until it reaches the perfect al dente texture, then mix it with marinara sauce to ensure every strand is coated in flavor.
Creating the cheese filling is equally easy; just combine ricotta with an egg and seasonings for a creamy layer that complements the pasta beautifully.
Layering the dish is where the magic happens.
Alternate between spaghetti, ricotta, and cheese to build a hearty casserole that will bubble and brown in the oven.
Baking to Perfection
Once assembled, the dish is covered and baked to allow the flavors to meld together.
After a brief baking period, removing the foil lets the cheese reach that golden, bubbly state that is so enticing.
The aroma wafting through the kitchen will have everyone eagerly anticipating the first bite.
Serving Suggestions
Cheesy baked spaghetti is best served warm, allowing the layers to hold together while still being creamy and delicious.
Pair it with a slice of garlic bread for a complete meal that feels indulgent yet comforting.
A sprinkle of fresh basil on top not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a fresh note to each serving.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This dish is versatile enough for casual family dinners or more festive gatherings.
Its ability to serve multiple people makes it a go-to option for potlucks or celebrations.
Plus, leftovers can be easily reheated, making it a practical choice for busy weeknights.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself, cheesy baked spaghetti is sure to please.
With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it stands out as a beloved classic in any home kitchen.
Easy Cheesy Baked Spaghetti
This baked spaghetti features al dente pasta mixed with a rich marinara sauce, layered with cheese, and baked until bubbly and golden. The recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Mix the Cheese Filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with marinara sauce, mixing until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Layer the Dish: In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread half of the spaghetti mixture. Dollop half of the ricotta mixture over the spaghetti, then sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti, ricotta, and top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the baked spaghetti cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 50g