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A delicious baked spaghetti casserole topped with melted cheese and herbs.

Baked Spaghetti Casserole

A comforting and delicious casserole that combines the classic flavors of spaghetti with cheesy goodness, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 12 ounces spaghetti Cook according to package instructions.
  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey Choose according to preference.
  • 1 onion, chopped Add for flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the dish with aromatic flavor.
  • 24 ounces marinara sauce Store bought or homemade.
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese Creamy texture.
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese For a gooey top layer.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds a sharp flavor.
  • Salt and pepper to taste Season as desired.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, cook the ground meat over medium heat until browned. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
  4. Stir in the marinara sauce, letting it simmer for a few minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
Assembly
  1. In a greased baking dish, layer half of the spaghetti mixture, then add the meat sauce, and top with the remaining spaghetti.
  2. Finish by sprinkling the rest of the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan on top.
Baking
  1. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Notes

Cook spaghetti just until al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven. You can add cooked vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking to help it set and make serving easier.