Delicious Baked Spaghetti: A Cozy Comfort Food Recipe

Name: Baked Spaghetti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 ounces dried spaghetti; 1 pound ground beef (or turkey/plant-based substitute); 24 ounces marinara sauce; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

January 18, 2026

Updated:

January 18, 2026

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Indulging in a plate of baked spaghetti feels like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. The rich aroma of bubbling marinara sauce mingling with melted cheese fills the air, teasing your taste buds and promising an explosion of flavor. Picture this: strands of perfectly cooked pasta embraced by that delightful sauce, all topped with a golden crust that beckons you to dig in.

I remember hosting a casual dinner party where I decided to whip up my grandmother’s baked spaghetti recipe. The moment I pulled it from the oven, my friends’ eyes lit up. It was pure magic—an ideal dish for family gatherings, movie nights, or just when you need a big hug in food form. Get ready for a flavor adventure that will make your heart sing!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This baked spaghetti is quick and easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners simple and delicious

Its cheesy goodness combined with savory meat sauce creates a flavor bomb you’ll crave again and again
Visually striking with its golden-brown top layer, this dish is perfect for impressing guests

Versatile enough to customize based on dietary preferences or what’s in your fridge!

Every time I serve baked spaghetti, friends ask for seconds, and I gladly oblige; it’s hard to resist those cheesy layers!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Spaghetti: Use about 12 ounces of dried spaghetti for the perfect base; cook until al dente for the best texture.

Ground Beef: About 1 pound will add heartiness; feel free to substitute with turkey or plant-based options if desired.
Marinara Sauce: A good-quality jarred sauce works wonders; choose one with herbs for added flavor.
Ricotta Cheese: Adds creaminess and richness; look for whole milk ricotta for optimal taste.

Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella adds gooeyness; don’t skimp—more cheese means more happiness!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan enhances the flavors beautifully; sprinkle generously on top before baking.
Eggs: One egg helps bind the ricotta mixture together; it ensures everything stays nice and cohesive.

Italian Seasoning: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme brings out all the delicious Italian flavors; adjust according to your taste.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for enhancing flavor; season each layer generously as you go along.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Cook the Spaghetti: Boil water in a large pot and add salt. Cook the spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside while you prepare the meat sauce.

Sauté the Meat Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and add marinara sauce along with Italian seasoning. Simmer for about 10 minutes until flavors meld beautifully.

Create the Cheesy Layer: In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with one egg, salt, and pepper until smooth. This creamy mixture adds richness that complements the pasta perfectly.

Layer It Up!: In your greased baking dish, start layering by spreading half of the cooked spaghetti at the bottom. Top it with half of the meat sauce followed by dollops of ricotta mixture and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Repeat layering once more with remaining spaghetti, meat sauce, ricotta mixture, and finish off with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Now that you’ve completed these steps let that lovely aroma fill your kitchen while you anticipate digging into this comforting dish! Enjoy every cheesy bite of your homemade baked spaghetti masterpiece!

You Must Know

Baked spaghetti is a crowd-pleaser that combines flavors and textures for a comforting meal
The aroma of bubbling cheese and savory sauce makes it irresistible
This dish shines as an easy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering centerpiece, perfect for any occasion

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the spaghetti until al dente. While it cooks, prepare your sauce and layer everything in a baking dish, finishing with cheese on top for that golden crust.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add vegetables like bell peppers for a nutritious twist. Experimenting can lead to delightful discoveries!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover baked spaghetti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through to preserve its texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly baked spaghetti, make sure your pasta is slightly undercooked before baking, so it absorbs the sauce without getting mushy
Use high-quality cheese for an indulgent topping that melts beautifully
Add fresh herbs right before serving for a burst of flavor and freshness

Sharing my first baked spaghetti experience brings back memories of family gatherings when everyone would gather around the table with eager smiles, ready to dig in.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use gluten-free pasta for baked spaghetti?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works well; just follow package instructions for cooking time.

How do I prevent my baked spaghetti from drying out?

Adding extra sauce or covering the dish while baking keeps moisture locked in.

Can I freeze baked spaghetti?

Absolutely! Freeze it before baking and bake straight from frozen when needed for convenience.

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