Irresistible Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe to Delight

Name: Baked Spaghetti Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; 1 lb lean ground beef; 24 oz marinara sauce; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 2 large eggs, whisked; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

January 29, 2026

Updated:

January 29, 2026

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There’s something magical about a baked spaghetti casserole that fills the kitchen with aromas that dance around like happy little food sprites. Picture this: a bubbling layer of cheesy goodness, tender pasta enveloped in a rich, savory sauce, and all topped off with crispy bits of golden cheese. It’s comfort food at its finest, and every forkful promises to transport you straight to flavor town.

I remember the first time I made baked spaghetti casserole. My family gathered around the table, eyes wide with anticipation as I pulled it from the oven. The moment they took their first bite, the room erupted into joyful chatter and satisfied mmm’s. This delightful dish is perfect for cozy family nights or potlucks where you want to impress without overexerting yourself in the kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This baked spaghetti casserole offers an easy preparation method that even novice cooks can master

Its flavor profile combines savory and cheesy elements for a comforting taste experience
The vibrant layers create a visual feast that brightens any table setting

Versatile enough to include your favorite ingredients or leftovers, it’s sure to satisfy everyone

I still chuckle thinking about my cousin’s face when he realized what he had just devoured—he had claimed he was on a strict no-carb diet!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Spaghetti: Use standard spaghetti for classic texture; whole wheat is great if you’re feeling healthy.

Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef for less grease without sacrificing flavor.
Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite jarred sauce or make your own for a personalized touch.
Shredded Cheese: A mix of mozzarella and cheddar adds both creaminess and flavor; don’t skimp here!

Onion: Diced onions lend sweetness; sauté until translucent for maximum flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide aromatic depth; use minced for an intense kick.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs enhances the dish’s overall profile; feel free to adjust based on personal taste.

Eggs: Whisked eggs help bind the mixture together, ensuring every bite holds its shape.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan on top adds a nutty finish that will have you reaching for seconds.

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

Let’s Make it together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures your casserole bakes evenly while you prepare everything else.

Cook the Spaghetti: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook your spaghetti until just al dente. Drain and set aside but do not rinse—this keeps the starches intact for better sauce adherence.

Sauté the Vegetables and Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté diced onions until they turn translucent. Then toss in minced garlic and ground beef—cook until browned through while breaking up any large chunks.

Add Sauce and Seasoning: Pour in your marinara sauce along with Italian seasoning, stirring well to combine everything. Let it simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes so flavors meld beautifully.

Combine Everything Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked spaghetti with meat sauce mixture, whisked eggs, and half of your shredded cheese. Stir until every strand of pasta is coated generously.

Bake It Up!: Transfer everything into a greased baking dish, sprinkle remaining cheese on top, and bake uncovered in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

And there you have it! Each step takes you closer to that glorious moment when you pull out a steaming hot baked spaghetti casserole from your oven—a moment worth savoring!

You Must Know

Baked spaghetti casserole is a comfort food delight that brings family together
The aroma wafting from the oven will have everyone gathering around, eagerly waiting for a taste
This dish is not only flavorful but also incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for any occasion

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling your spaghetti until al dente while preparing the sauce. Mix everything and layer it in a baking dish for optimal flavor infusion.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Ensure your pasta is slightly undercooked before baking to avoid mushiness later
Use fresh herbs for a fragrant twist, enhancing the overall flavor profile
Let the casserole rest before serving; this helps it set and makes slicing easier

The first time I made this baked spaghetti casserole, my friends devoured it! They were raving about how cheesy and comforting it was – definitely a win!

FAQs

FAQ

What can I substitute for ground beef in baked spaghetti casserole?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles as alternatives.

Can I freeze baked spaghetti casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking; just ensure it’s well-sealed.

How do I make my baked spaghetti casserole creamier?

Add extra cream cheese or sour cream to the mixture before baking for luscious creaminess.

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