Go Back
Dorothy Thomas

Baked Spaghetti Recipe

A comforting, cheesy baked spaghetti casserole with layers of marinara, ground beef, and melted mozzarella—perfect for family dinners or potlucks!Author: [Your Name/Blog Name]
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 8
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 340 g 12 oz Spaghetti noodles
  • 450 g 1 lb Ground beef (or Italian sausage)
  • 1 Yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 680 g 24 oz Marinara sauce (homemade or jarred)
  • 5 g 1 tsp Dried oregano
  • 5 g 1 tsp Dried basil
  • 2.5 g ½ tsp Red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 100 g 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 200 g 2 cups Mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 120 ml ½ cup Water or beef broth
  • To taste Salt & black pepper
  • 30 ml 2 tbsp Olive oil

Equipment

  • Large pot
  •  skillet, 9x13 baking dish
  • Colander
  • mixing spoon

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Cook spaghetti al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. Brown the beef: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic; sauté until soft. Add ground beef, breaking it apart until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
  4. Season & sauce: Stir in marinara, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and water/broth. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Combine: Toss cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce and ½ cup Parmesan cheese. Transfer to the baking dish.
  6. Top with cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and remaining Parmesan evenly over the spaghetti.
  7. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  8. Rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

  • Make ahead: Assemble (unbaked) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5–10 minutes to baking time.
  • Vegetarian option: Substitute beef with mushrooms or lentils.
  • Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking.