Baked Spaghetti | Comfort Food Classic

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. 3 In a skillet, cook ground beef until browned; drain excess fat if necessary.
4. 4 Stir in marinara sauce and basil; let simmer for 5 minutes.
5. 5 In a bowl, mix ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper.
6. 6 Layer half the spaghetti in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
7. 7 Spread the ricotta mixture over the pasta, followed by the meat sauce.
8. 8 Top with remaining spaghetti and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella.
9. 9 Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
• Substitute ground beef with Italian sausage for a richer taste.
• If ricotta isn't your thing, swap with cottage cheese for a tangy twist.
• Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to set the cheese.
• Ensure the center reaches at least 165°F for food safety.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat covered in a 350°F oven until hot.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a crisp Caesar salad.
• Pair with garlic bread for extra indulgence.
• A simple side of roasted vegetables complements the richness.
• Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil.

FAQ