If you’re craving a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Easy Baked Spaghetti Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining perfectly al dente spaghetti with richly seasoned ground beef and a luscious marinara sauce, all topped with a melty blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan cheese, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or craving some cozy leftovers, this recipe brings together incredible flavors with minimal fuss, making it a go-to weeknight winner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and satisfying textures. Each item plays a vital role — from the hearty ground beef to the trio of cheeses adding creaminess and that irresistible golden crust on top.
- 1 pound uncooked spaghetti: Use regular spaghetti and cook it slightly under al dente for the best texture after baking.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: This adds savory richness without too much grease, perfect for the sauce base.
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch when cooked down with the meat.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning: Brings warm Mediterranean herbal notes to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): A little kick for those who like a subtle hint of heat.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic adds an aromatic punch that elevates every bite.
- 4 cups marinara sauce: The heart of the dish, infusing the spaghetti with tangy tomato goodness.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella: Classic melty cheese perfect for that irresistible stretchy texture.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar: Adds sharpness and depth, balancing the creaminess of mozzarella.
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for salty, nutty flavor and a beautiful golden crust.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Essential for rounding out all the flavors.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, to taste): Adds a fresh burst of color and mild herbal brightness as garnish.
How to Make Easy Baked Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F, positioning the rack in the upper third of the oven so the heat will brown your cheese topping beautifully in later steps. Getting your oven ready early means you’ll move seamlessly between steps.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil — the salt seasons the pasta from within, bringing out its flavor. Cook the spaghetti for two minutes less than what the package suggests so it doesn’t overcook during baking. Drain the pasta well, then transfer it directly into a 9×13-inch casserole or baking dish. The pasta forms the base, holding all those delicious flavors together once baked.
Step 3: Brown the Beef and Onions
While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add your ground beef, chopped onions, oregano, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. If your beef is very lean, a splash of olive oil helps cook the onions perfectly without burning. Stir occasionally as the meat browns and the onions soften, about 10 minutes. This step builds the savory backbone of the dish with caramelized flavor.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Marinara Sauce
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just about a minute; this step unlocks garlic’s pungent aroma without letting it burn. Pour in the marinara sauce and simmer gently, letting all the flavors marry while the sauce heats through. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper here to balance the tanginess and enhance the meaty sauce.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Pour the rich beef and sauce mixture over your partially cooked spaghetti in the casserole dish. Toss everything thoroughly so that each strand of spaghetti is coated with that flavorful, meaty sauce. Smooth the mixture into an even layer, which will help it bake uniformly and hold together when served.
Step 6: Cheese it Up and Bake
Generously top your saucy spaghetti with the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan cheeses, creating a glorious cheesy blanket. Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes until the cheeses melt and meld together. For an extra-special touch, switch to broil for a minute or two to get that irresistible golden-brown bubbly cheese crust — just watch carefully so it doesn’t burn. Let your baked spaghetti rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing; this makes it easier to serve and allows the flavors to settle.
How to Serve Easy Baked Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a pop of green color and a pleasantly fresh, herbal note that complements the rich sauce. If you’re looking to get fancy, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few torn fresh basil leaves brighten the final presentation beautifully.
Side Dishes
A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or some garlic bread makes the perfect pairing for this hearty Easy Baked Spaghetti Recipe. The freshness and crunch contrast nicely with the cheesy, saucy pasta, creating a well-rounded meal that honestly feels like a special occasion at home.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your baked spaghetti in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for a charming personal touch that’s perfect for dinner parties or family meals. Another fun idea is to sprinkle extra parmesan and fresh herbs right at the table, letting guests customize their own portions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Easy Baked Spaghetti Recipe keeps very well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain moisture and freshness so you can enjoy delicious leftovers without a hitch.
Freezing
If you want to make this dish ahead for even easier meals, it freezes beautifully. Divide into portions and freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain that lovely baked texture. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too — cover loosely and heat in bursts to keep the cheese from drying out. Add a splash of water or extra sauce if it seems dry.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta instead of spaghetti?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic here, penne, rigatoni, or any short pasta with ridges works wonderfully since it holds the sauce well and bakes nicely.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply swap out the ground beef for your favorite plant-based meat or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini to keep it hearty but meat-free.
How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a mild to moderate kick, but you can adjust the amount to suit your heat preference or leave them out completely for a milder dish.
Is it necessary to undercook the pasta before baking?
Yes, undercooking the pasta by a couple of minutes ensures that it finishes cooking perfectly in the oven without becoming mushy or overly soft.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time and bake it later?
You sure can! Assemble the dish completely, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Baked Spaghetti Recipe truly feels like a warm, satisfying hug on a plate and that’s why I keep coming back to it again and again. With straightforward ingredients and steps that anyone can follow, it makes weeknight dinners something to look forward to. Give this recipe a try, gather your loved ones, and enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite together — you won’t regret it!
Print
Easy Baked Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Easy Baked Spaghetti recipe features perfectly cooked spaghetti combined with a flavorful beef and marinara sauce mixture, topped with a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan cheeses, then baked to golden perfection. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish ideal for family dinners or potlucks with a delicious cheesy crust and a rich, savory flavor.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound uncooked spaghetti
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- Salt & pepper to taste
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Garnish (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position the oven rack in the top third to ensure even baking.
- Cook Spaghetti: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti for 2 minutes less than the package instructions to keep it slightly firm. Drain the spaghetti and transfer it to a 9×13-inch casserole or baking dish.
- Prepare Meat Sauce: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the lean ground beef with chopped onion, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Add a tablespoon of olive oil if the beef is very lean to help cook the onions. Stir occasionally, cooking until the beef is browned and vegetables are softened, about 10 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Garlic and Marinara: Stir the minced garlic into the beef mixture and cook for about one minute until fragrant. Pour in the marinara sauce and heat through for a few minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the cooked beef and marinara sauce over the spaghetti in the casserole dish. Toss everything together gently until the spaghetti is well coated, then smooth it into an even layer.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and grated parmesan evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Optionally, broil for a few minutes to brown the cheese—watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Rest and Serve: Let the baked spaghetti sit for 5-10 minutes to set. Cut into squares using a spatula and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Cooking the spaghetti al dente (slightly undercooked) helps prevent it from becoming mushy after baking.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
- For a lighter version, substitute lean ground turkey or chicken.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
