Baked Spaghetti is a comforting classic that brings families together at the dinner table. This delightful dish is a perfect fusion of Italian-American cuisine, combining flavorful spaghetti with rich marinara sauce, ground beef, and gooey cheese. It's the type of meal that not only satisfies hunger but also warms the heart, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. Baked spaghetti is versatile, easy to prepare, and can be customized to suit various tastes. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious cheesy spaghetti bake that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale:
12 ounces spaghetti
1 teaspoon salt (for pasta water)
2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
1 bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnishing)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes. If using, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking. Drain excess fat.
Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Let simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, meat sauce, sour cream, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix well until evenly distributed.
Transfer the spaghetti mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and if using, scatter cheddar cheese on top.
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
