If you’ve ever dreamed of a cozy, comforting dish that brings family and friends together, this Baked Spaghetti Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. It’s a beautiful blend of tender spaghetti noodles bathed in a rich, homemade tomato and beef sauce, layered generously with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then baked to bubbly perfection. This dish delivers layers of flavor and texture that feel like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for any night you crave something hearty and satisfying without fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Baked Spaghetti Recipe is in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a vital role. Every element, from the fresh basil to the shredded mozzarella, works together to build layers of flavor, texture, and gorgeous colors that make this dish irresistible.
- Cooking spray: Keeps your baking dish perfectly greased to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors, especially the pasta and sauce, balancing the dish beautifully.
- 1 lb. spaghetti: The base that holds all the savory goodness, cooked to al dente for just the right bite.
- 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness while sautéing the onions and garlic.
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped: Provides sweetness and depth once softened.
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped: Infuses the sauce with warm, aromatic undertones.
- 1 lb. ground beef: Offers hearty protein and a meaty texture that grounds the dish.
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds authentic Mediterranean flair.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Gives a subtle kick and brightens each bite.
- 1 (28-oz.) can crushed tomatoes: The sauce’s rich tomato base, providing both acidity and sweetness.
- 1 (8-oz.) can tomato sauce: Enhances the sauce’s smoothness for a luscious coating on the pasta.
- 1/2 c. fresh basil leaves, chopped: Adds fresh herbal notes and a vibrant green pop.
- 2 c. shredded mozzarella: Melts beautifully, creating that signature gooey, cheesy layer.
- 1/4 c. finely grated Parmesan: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the mozzarella.
- Chopped fresh parsley, for serving: A final fresh garnish to brighten up every forkful.
How to Make Baked Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Cook the Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and greasing a 13″ by 9″ baking dish with cooking spray—this will ensure the spaghetti doesn’t stick while baking. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti until al dente, following the package directions closely so the pasta holds its texture through baking. Once done, drain and set aside so it’s ready to mingle with your sauce later.
Step 2: Build the Sauce Base
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and cook it gently until it turns soft and translucent, about 7 minutes. This step releases its natural sweetness, creating a flavorful foundation. Then add garlic and let it cook just enough to become fragrant without burning — about 1 minute.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add the ground beef and sprinkle in your Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Using a wooden spoon, break up the beef as it cooks to ensure it’s evenly browned but still juicy. Continue until no pink remains, which should take roughly 8 minutes. This meaty layer is essential for depth in your baked spaghetti.
Step 4: Simmer the Tomato Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and toss in your fresh chopped basil. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce reduce slightly for about 10 minutes, stirring now and then to thicken and blend flavors beautifully. This slow simmer transforms your sauce from good to spectacular.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce, Bake with Cheese
Fold the cooked spaghetti into the sauce, making sure every strand is well coated with that luscious, hearty mixture. Transfer everything into your prepared baking dish, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and finely grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden around the edges—this gooey layer makes the Baked Spaghetti Recipe so comforting.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
When you pull the dish out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. Then sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a bright, fresh burst of color and flavor. This finishing touch not only makes the dish pop visually but adds a mild herbaceous note that balances the richness beautifully.
How to Serve Baked Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Baked Spaghetti Recipe even further, fresh parsley is a classic choice that adds a splash of green and a fresh aroma. For a little extra flair, consider sprinkling some red pepper flakes if you like a hint of spicy warmth or a few basil leaves for herbal freshness that complements the tomato base.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing side salads—think arugula with lemon vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread also make perfect companions, ready to soak up any leftover sauce and add a satisfying crunch that contrasts the tender pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to make your dinner presentation special, serve the baked spaghetti in individual ramekins for personal portions. Alternatively, layering a bit of fresh mozzarella between pasta layers before baking can create surprising pockets of gooey cheese. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil right before serving adds shine and a hint of richness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, no worries—this dish keeps beautifully in the refrigerator. Transfer any remaining baked spaghetti to an airtight container and store it for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen, making for an even more delightful meal the next day.
Freezing
The Baked Spaghetti Recipe also freezes well. For best results, assemble the dish completely (but do not bake), cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake it straight from frozen, adding a little extra time to bake through and reheat evenly.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftovers in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil to prevent drying out, and warm in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through, about 15 to 20 minutes. Alternatively, the microwave works in a pinch, but reheating slowly in the oven preserves the best texture and melting quality of the cheese.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this baked spaghetti recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic and holds the sauce beautifully, you can swap in penne, rigatoni, or ziti. These shapes also catch the sauce nicely and provide a bit of variety in texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute. The rest of the recipe remains the same and still delivers that hearty, comforting flavor we all love.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
Adding red pepper flakes when cooking the onions or stirring in a spoonful of your favorite chili sauce into the tomato mixture is a great way to turn up the heat without overpowering the dish.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Definitely! The sauce can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. It tastes even better after resting, allowing the flavors to meld. Just combine with pasta and cheese before baking.
What cheese alternatives work well in this baked spaghetti recipe?
If you want to mix things up, provolone or fontina cheese are excellent substitutes for mozzarella. For the Parmesan, pecorino Romano offers a sharper, saltier twist that adds character.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Spaghetti Recipe is a timeless, comforting dish that’s bound to become a staple in your home cooking routine. It’s easy to make yet packed with heartwarming flavor, perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd. I encourage you to try it, share it, and savor every cheesy, saucy bite with your favorite people—it truly is a recipe that makes every meal feel like a celebration.
Print
Baked Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This comforting Baked Spaghetti recipe features tender spaghetti noodles mixed with a flavorful homemade meat sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Baked to perfection in the oven, it makes a satisfying family-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- Cooking spray
- Kosher salt
- 1 lb. spaghetti
- 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 (28-oz.) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (8-oz.) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 c. fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 c. shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 c. finely grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley, for serving
Instructions
- Prep the oven and pasta: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13″ x 9″ baking dish with cooking spray. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente following package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the aromatics and beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef and Italian seasoning, seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat, until no longer pink, about 8 minutes.
- Make the sauce: Pour the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chopped basil into the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to fully coat the noodles with the meat sauce. Transfer this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Add cheese and bake: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top of the pasta mixture. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the pasta is warmed through, approximately 20 minutes.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the baked spaghetti from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot for a delicious, hearty meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti to accommodate dietary preferences.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or cooked lentils.
- Make sure not to overcook the spaghetti initially since it will bake further in the oven.
