Baked Cheesy Spaghetti Casserole: A Comforting Twist!

Spaghetti CasserolePhoto byRecipe Formula

Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich flavors of spaghetti with a cheesy, baked goodness.

>>>Get the Recipe in Details: Spaghetti Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 pound spaghetti
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
4. Add Sauce Ingredients: Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Layer Casserole: In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce. Add half of the cooked spaghetti, followed by half of the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of meat sauce and the remaining cheeses on top.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Conclusion:

This Spaghetti Casserole is a delightful twist on traditional spaghetti, offering a baked, cheesy experience that’s both comforting and delicious. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite ingredients, such as adding vegetables or using different types of cheese. Serve it with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal that your family and friends will love. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of this easy-to-make casserole!

FAQs:

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers? A: Absolutely! Store the leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Q: Can I use a different type of meat? A: Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a meatless alternative for a different flavor.

Enjoy making and sharing this hearty Spaghetti Casserole with your family and friends! 🍝🧀