If you have a love for comforting, cheesy pasta dishes that bring everyone together, this Baked Spaghetti Recipe is going to become your new go-to meal. Combining rich layers of savory meat sauce with creamy ricotta and plenty of melted mozzarella, it’s a hearty, satisfying dinner that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, this baked spaghetti delivers big on flavor and warmth, inviting everyone to dig in and savor every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Baked Spaghetti Recipe is in how humble yet essential each ingredient is, contributing layers of flavor, texture, and that irresistible cheesy goodness. From the perfectly cooked spaghetti that forms the base, to the well-seasoned meat sauce, and the cheeses that make it heavenly, every component plays a delicious role.

1 pound spaghetti, cooked and drained: Make sure to cook it al dente for the best texture after baking.
1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage: Adds rich, savory flavor; sausage offers a spicier kick.
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce: The tomato base that ties everything together with acidity and sweetness.
1 cup ricotta cheese: Brings creaminess and a subtle tang that balances the meatiness.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Melts into gooey, stringy perfection on every bite.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided: Adds a nutty, salty sharpness that enhances the dish.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs to deepen the savory profile.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and highlighting all flavors.
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional): For a bright, fresh garnish.

How to Make Baked Spaghetti Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Getting your oven ready early ensures that the baking step goes smoothly and your spaghetti casserole finishes perfectly bubbly and hot.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage until perfectly cooked through. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease to keep the sauce from becoming too oily. Then stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and seasoning with salt and pepper. This savory sauce will coat every strand of spaghetti with flavor.

Step 3: Mix the Spaghetti and Cheeses

In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan. This mixture forms the creamy, cheesy layers that make this Baked Spaghetti Recipe so irresistible.

Step 4: Layer Your Dish

Spread half of the spaghetti and cheese mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Follow with half of the meat sauce spread over the top. Repeat these layers, creating a built-up casserole ready to bake and meld those delicious flavors together.

Step 5: Add the Final Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top of the casserole. This cheese layer will melt into a golden, bubbling crust that everybody loves.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the casserole is hot and bubbly. To get that perfect golden top, remove the foil during the last 2 to 3 minutes and broil on high, watching carefully so it doesn’t burn.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Allow the baked spaghetti to cool slightly for about 5 minutes before sprinkling with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of fresh green and subtle herbal aroma. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors with family or friends.

How to Serve Baked Spaghetti Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh chopped basil or parsley make beautiful, flavorful garnishes that add brightness and a touch of elegance to the hearty baked spaghetti. A light drizzle of good olive oil or some crushed red pepper flakes can also elevate the dish.

Side Dishes

Keep sides simple to balance this rich casserole. A crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette, garlic bread, or steamed green veggies like broccoli or green beans all pair wonderfully, adding fresh textures and colors to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests, serve the baked spaghetti in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets for personal portions with crispy edges. Layering it in a clear glass baking dish shows off the colorful layers, tempting everyone before they even take a bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store in airtight containers. Refrigerated baked spaghetti will keep well for up to 4 days, making it perfect for reheating next-day meals.

Freezing

You can freeze baked spaghetti either before or after baking. Use a freezer-safe container and label with the date. It will keep fresh flavors for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, just increase baking time accordingly.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the leftovers with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave single servings, but oven reheating helps preserve the dish’s delicious texture and melted cheese layers.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free spaghetti in this recipe?

Absolutely! Just cook your gluten-free pasta according to the package directions, and it will work great in this Baked Spaghetti Recipe without compromising flavor or texture.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the meat and add your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant. Use a hearty marinara sauce to keep the dish flavorful and satisfying.

What cheese substitutes can I use?

If you want to swap out cheeses, provolone or fontina melt beautifully and add different flavor dimensions. For lactose-intolerant diners, consider lactose-free ricotta and mozzarella alternatives.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely. You can assemble the entire dish a day before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.

Is Italian seasoning necessary?

While not mandatory, Italian seasoning adds an aromatic blend of herbs that enhances the meat sauce’s flavor, making the dish taste more authentic and layered.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Spaghetti Recipe is the kind of comforting meal that fills the kitchen with inviting aromas and fills hearts with joy. Whether you’re new to making casseroles or a seasoned pasta lover, it’s easy, reliable, and utterly delicious. Give it a try, and soon it’ll be a cherished recipe in your cooking rotation, perfect for sharing with those you love.

Baked Spaghetti Recipe

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4.1 from 82 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This delicious Baked Spaghetti recipe combines perfectly cooked spaghetti with a rich meat sauce and creamy cheeses, baked to bubbly perfection. It’s an easy, comforting, and hearty dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Spaghetti Mixture

1 pound spaghetti, cooked and drained
1 cup ricotta cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Meat Sauce

1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Topping

½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

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Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Cook Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until fully browned. Drain any excess grease to make the dish less oily. Then stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer briefly to blend the flavors.
Layer Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan. Spread half of this spaghetti mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Layer half of the meat sauce over it, then repeat with the remaining spaghetti mixture and meat sauce.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top layer to create a cheesy crust.
Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the sauce is bubbly. For a nicely browned and golden top, remove the foil and broil for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Garnish and Serve: Allow the baked spaghetti to cool for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley if desired, then serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Use Italian sausage or lean ground beef depending on your preference for flavor and fat content.
Cook the spaghetti al dente as it will cook further during baking.
Broiling at the end adds a lovely golden top but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add a bright, fresh flavor as garnish.
Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated thoroughly.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American