This Cheesy Ground Beef Spaghetti Bake is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table with eager forks and warm smiles. It’s a hearty, comforting casserole-style meal that layers tender spaghetti noodles with a rich, savory tomato and ground beef sauce, all blanketed under a gooey, golden layer of melted cheddar and mozzarella. The sauce is infused with garlic, onion, and herbs, giving it depth and aroma, while the cheese adds indulgent creaminess. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that reheats beautifully and satisfies every craving for something warm, cheesy, and filling.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 lb (450g) spaghetti
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup tomato sauce or pasta sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside. Toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Combine and Layer: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce, tossing until the noodles are evenly coated.Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top, covering the entire surface.
- Bake the Dish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.Serve hot, straight from the dish, with garlic bread or a crisp green salad on the side.
Serving Suggestions & Variations:
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the sauce for extra veggies.
- Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a spicier kick.
- Swap cheddar for parmesan or provolone for a different cheese profile.
- Make it ahead and refrigerate—just reheat in the oven before serving.