What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade baked spaghetti recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort to your table with minimal effort. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up, the cheesy, saucy layers that make every bite irresistible, and the way it’s perfect for leftovers—tasting even better the next day! Plus, it’s versatile, so you can customize it with your favorite ingredients.
Recipe
Baked spaghetti is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the flavors of classic spaghetti with a cheesy, baked finish. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this recipe is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Combine cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce, mixing well. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving (optional).
Notes:
- For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the meat sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Equipment:
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Mixing spoon
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Cuisine:
Italian-American
Serving:
6–8 servings
Nutrition
Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 30mg |
| Sodium | 600mg |
| Total Carbs | 45g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 8g |
| Protein | 15g |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my baked spaghetti with garlic bread because it’s crispy, buttery, and perfect for soaking up the sauce. A fresh side salad, with crunchy greens and a tangy dressing, balances the meal and adds a bit of color to the table. These pairings make the dish feel complete without taking too much extra effort.
Garlic Bread
When I’m serving baked spaghetti, I almost always pair it with garlic bread because it’s such a classic combo. The crispy, buttery slices soak up the sauce perfectly, and the garlic adds a punch that balances the richness of the dish. I like to toast mine until golden, with a sprinkle of parsley for freshness. It’s simple but makes the meal feel complete. Sometimes, I’ll add a little Parmesan on top for extra flavor. Trust me, once you try this pairing, you won’t want to eat spaghetti without it. It’s that good—comfort food at its best.
Side Salad
While garlic bread is a must with baked spaghetti, a fresh side salad adds a crisp, light touch to the meal. I love tossing together a simple mix of greens, like romaine or spinach, with cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a sprinkle of shredded carrots. A homemade vinaigrette, made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt, ties it all together. Sometimes, I’ll add croutons or Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. It’s quick to prepare and balances the richness of the spaghetti perfectly. Trust me, this salad will make your dinner feel complete without weighing you down.
