A Hearty Baked Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings together the richness of Italian flavors in one wholesome dish. Unlike a simple plate of spaghetti, this casserole is baked with layers of pasta, cheese, and a savory meat sauce that meld together into a golden, bubbling masterpiece. It is filling, family-friendly, and perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings when you want to serve something warm, delicious, and satisfying. The beauty of this recipe is that it uses simple ingredients, yet the final result tastes as though it came straight from a cozy Italian kitchen.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti, cooked al dente
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (optional, depending on sauce)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup cottage cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant. Stir in ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary. Add marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan. Mix well.
- Layer cooked spaghetti in the prepared baking dish. Spread cheese mixture evenly over the pasta. Pour the meat sauce over the cheese layer. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Servings
This recipe serves 6 to 8 people generously.
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 420
Protein: 27g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fat: 17g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 780mg
Sugar: 6g
Notes
This recipe can easily be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze the casserole for up to three months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. Adjust seasonings based on the type of marinara sauce you choose.
Tips
Use whole wheat spaghetti for extra fiber and nutrients. For a lighter version, substitute ground beef with lean turkey or chicken. Adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini enhances flavor and nutrition. Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes after baking to make cutting and serving easier.
Health Benefits
This baked spaghetti casserole offers a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, making it a complete meal. The cheese provides calcium and protein, while the tomatoes in the sauce are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that supports heart health. Adding vegetables increases dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels. Choosing lean meat options reduces saturated fat intake, making it a healthier comfort food alternative.
Q & A
Q: Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
A: Yes, simply skip the meat and add sautéed vegetables or use plant-based meat alternatives.
Q: Can I prepare it ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
Q: Can I freeze baked spaghetti casserole?
A: Yes, wrap it tightly in foil and freeze. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Q: How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
A: Keep it covered with foil for most of the baking time, removing it only at the end to brown the cheese.
Q: Can I use different cheeses?
A: Definitely. Cheddar, provolone, or a three-cheese blend work wonderfully for added flavor.