Baked Spaghetti with Meat Sauce pasta cheese

 

Baked Spaghetti with Meat Sauce: A Comfort Food Classic

If you're looking for a hearty, comforting dish that brings everyone to the table, Baked Spaghetti with Meat Sauce is the answer. It's a warm, cheesy, satisfying meal that combines the richness of a homemade meat sauce with the gooey goodness of melted cheese, all wrapped around tender spaghetti noodles.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, Sunday family dinners, or any time you want a delicious meal that feeds a crowd and leaves plenty of leftovers.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients

• Kid-friendly and picky-eater approved

• Perfect for meal prep – just reheat and enjoy

• Customizable – add your favorite vegetables or use different cheeses

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Ingredients

• 1 lb spaghetti

• 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage for extra flavor)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 jar (24 oz) of your favorite pasta sauce (or homemade)

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tbsp olive oil

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Instructions

1. Cook the spaghetti:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the meat sauce:
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

3. Simmer with sauce:
   Pour in the pasta sauce and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Stir to combine and let simmer for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Assemble the dish:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   In a large baking dish, layer half of the cooked spaghetti, half of the meat sauce, and half of the mozzarella. Repeat the layers, then top with Parmesan cheese.

5. Bake:
   Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve and enjoy:
   Let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.

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Tips & Variations

• Add vegetables: Mix in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients.

• Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage.

• Cheese options: Try a mix of mozzarella, provolone, or ricotta for a creamier texture.

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Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This dish also freezes well – just wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

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Final Thoughts

Baked Spaghetti with Meat Sauce is one of those timeless meals that never goes out of style. It’s cheesy, meaty, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you're feeding your family or bringing a dish to a potluck, this recipe is sure to please.

Ready to dig in? Let the oven do the work while you sit back and enjoy the irresistible aroma of baked pasta and cheese wafting through your kitchen!