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Easy Baked Spaghetti

Bubbling Easy Baked Spaghetti for Cozy Family Nights

This Easy Baked Spaghetti recipe combines ground beef, marinara, and melted cheese for a comforting dinner the whole family will enjoy.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Uncooked Spaghetti Gluten-free option available.
For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 lb Lean Ground Beef Substitute with turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup Chopped Onion Can replace with shallots or onion powder.
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano/Italian Seasoning Fresh herbs can be substituted.
  • 1/4 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Optional for heat.
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic Can use garlic powder if needed.
  • 24 oz Marinara Sauce Homemade or store-bought.
  • to taste Salt & Pepper Adjust to taste.
For the Cheese Topping
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Swap with provolone or dairy-free cheese.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Can substitute with Colby or vegan cheese.
  • 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Pecorino or nutritional yeast as dairy-free alternative.
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Parsley Optional for garnish.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • casserole dish

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and adjust the rack to the upper third.
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the uncooked spaghetti and cook for 2 minutes less than the package suggests, until al dente. Drain and transfer to a 9x13 casserole dish.
  3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the lean ground beef and chopped onion. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently until the beef is browned and onion is translucent.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, then pour in the marinara sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Pour the beef sauce mixture over the drained spaghetti in the casserole dish. Toss until the pasta is well coated in sauce.
  6. Spread the mixture evenly in the dish, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and grated Parmesan on top.
  7. Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and browned. Optionally, switch to broil for a few minutes for a golden color.
  8. Allow the Easy Baked Spaghetti to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This dish can be assembled in advance and stored in the refrigerator for hassle-free baking later.

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