Cheesy Baked Spaghetti

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Description:
Cheesy Baked Spaghetti is a comforting, hearty dish that layers flavors of spaghetti, rich marinara sauce, and a variety of cheeses, all baked to melty perfection. This recipe is a family favorite, perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve a filling and satisfying meal. It’s a simple twist on traditional spaghetti that adds an indulgent, cheesy crust.

Ingredients:

  • For the Spaghetti:
  • 1 pound spaghetti noodles
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • For the Cheese Mixture:
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Additional Ingredients:
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Additional Parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pasta:
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  1. Cook Meat and Sauce:
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
  • Add the ground beef or Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks until browned.
  • Drain excess fat and stir in the marinara sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
  1. Prepare Cheese Mixture:
  • In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, egg, and chopped parsley. Mix well until smooth.
  1. Assemble the Dish:
  • In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce.
  • Layer half of the cooked spaghetti over the sauce.
  • Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the spaghetti, then half of the mozzarella cheese.
  • Repeat layers with the remaining spaghetti, ricotta mixture, and another layer of mozzarella.
  • Top with a final layer of meat sauce and sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top.
  1. Bake:
  • Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  1. Serve:
  • Let the baked spaghetti sit for about 10 minutes before slicing.
  • Serve warm with a side of garlic bread and a green salad for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information Estimate (per serving, based on 8 servings):

  • Calories: 580
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Protein: 35g

Additional Tips:

  • For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and add a layer of sautéed vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers between the layers of spaghetti and cheese.
  • This dish can be prepared in advance and refrigerated. Just add a few minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

Cheesy Baked Spaghetti is a robust and delicious meal that combines the beloved elements of baked pasta dishes with the ease of spaghetti, making it an ideal choice for a fulfilling dinner any night of the week.

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