How To Make Baked Spaghetti
Baked spaghetti is a delicious twist on the classic spaghetti dish that we all know and love. The combination of spaghetti noodles, savory meat sauce, and melted cheese creates a mouthwatering comfort food that is sure to satisfy any craving. If you’re looking to elevate your spaghetti game, then this recipe is for you. Follow these easy steps to make a delectable baked spaghetti dish that will please both family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces of spaghetti noodles
– 1 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage
– 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 ounces) of tomato sauce
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon of dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– Grated parmesan cheese (optional)
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for the spaghetti noodles.
2. Cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
3. In a large skillet or frying pan, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat. Once cooked, remove any excess grease.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan with the meat. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the pan.
6. Combine the cooked spaghetti noodles with the meat sauce in the skillet or frying pan. Mix until the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce.
7. Transfer the spaghetti and meat sauce mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the spaghetti. If desired, sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese on top for an extra boost of flavor.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Once the baked spaghetti is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
11. Serve the baked spaghetti hot, straight from the baking dish. Cut into squares and enjoy!
FAQs:
Q: Can I use different meats for the meat sauce?
A: Absolutely! Ground beef and Italian sausage are the most commonly used meats, but you can experiment with ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian option if you prefer.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the baked spaghetti dish in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as it may take a few extra minutes to heat through.
Q: Can I freeze baked spaghetti?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Allow the dish to cool completely, and then transfer individual portions to airtight containers or resealable bags. When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen spaghetti, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the dish?
A: Of course! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the meat sauce or even layer them between the spaghetti and cheese. Common additions include bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach.
Baked spaghetti is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe will not disappoint. So grab your apron and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!
