Ultimate Oven-Baked Spaghetti Delight

Transform your dinner routine with the ultimate comfort food: a rich, creamy, and cheesy baked spaghetti casserole. This beloved Italian-American classic is reimagined as an effortless weeknight meal that promises to satisfy every craving. Forget bland dinners; prepare for a symphony of savory flavors and gooey textures that will have everyone asking for seconds. Our easy-to-follow recipe takes the familiar goodness of spaghetti and elevates it into a hearty, layered masterpiece, perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or enjoying delicious leftovers throughout the week.

Why This Baked Spaghetti Casserole Will Become Your Family’s Favorite

There’s a reason baked spaghetti holds a special place in the hearts of comfort food enthusiasts. It’s more than just a pasta dish; it’s a comforting hug in casserole form. This recipe stands out for several compelling reasons, making it an instant classic in any home:

• Effortless Elegance: Imagine al dente spaghetti, perfectly cooked, nestled between layers of a robust marinara sauce, seasoned Italian sausage (or your preferred meat), and a generous blend of creamy, melty cheeses. Each spoonful delivers a harmonious explosion of flavor and texture, baked to golden, bubbly perfection. It’s satisfyingly decadent yet surprisingly simple to assemble.
• Simplicity Over Complexity: While it might look as impressive as a classic lasagna, this baked spaghetti is significantly easier to prepare. You get all the layered goodness and cheesy delight without the intricate steps and longer cooking times associated with traditional lasagna. It’s the perfect compromise for when you crave that hearty Italian bake but are short on time.
• Feeds a Crowd (or Provides Abundant Leftovers): This recipe is designed to generously serve a large family or an entire gathering, making it ideal for potlucks, family dinners, or meal prepping. If you’re not feeding an army, don’t worry! The leftovers are truly spectacular. In fact, many argue that baked spaghetti tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld and deepen. It freezes and reheats beautifully, making it a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeks.
• Customizable & Versatile: From adjusting the spice level of your sausage to incorporating different vegetables or cheese blends, this recipe offers endless possibilities for customization. It’s a canvas for your culinary creativity, ensuring that it can be tailored to suit any palate or dietary preference.

If you enjoy comforting and easy weeknight meals, you might also love exploring other delicious options like Creamy Chicken Spaghetti, savory Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy, quick Homemade French Bread Pizza, hearty One-Pan Chicken Dirty Rice, convenient One-Pot Tortellini with Italian Sausage, classic French Bread Sloppy Joes, bright Lemon Ricotta Pasta, and flavorful Kielbasa, Squash & Zucchini Sheet Pan. Each of these offers a unique taste experience while keeping your cooking simple and satisfying.

Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Baked Spaghetti

Creating this irresistible baked spaghetti casserole starts with a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients that come together to form layers of unparalleled flavor. The beauty of this dish lies in its straightforward components, making it effortless to put together even on the busiest of evenings.

Key Components:

• Spaghetti Noodles: The foundation of our casserole! Opt for your favorite brand of thin spaghetti noodles. The thinness ensures they cook perfectly to al dente, ready to absorb all the rich sauce and cheese flavors without becoming mushy during baking.
• Italian Sausage: This ingredient is a flavor powerhouse. Whether you prefer mild or hot Italian sausage, its inherent seasonings — fennel, garlic, paprika, and herbs — provide an incredible depth of flavor to the marinara sauce, distinguishing this dish from a plain meat sauce. You can also use ground beef, turkey, or chicken as variations.
• Aromatic Seasonings:
  • Onion: A medium onion, finely chopped, forms the aromatic base, sautéing to translucent sweetness and adding a foundational layer of flavor.
  • Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced garlic is non-negotiable for that authentic Italian aroma and pungent kick.
  • Italian Seasoning: A blend of classic Italian herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary that ties all the flavors of the sauce together.
  • Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a vibrant, fresh note and a beautiful pop of color, both in the sauce and as a garnish.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: A touch of red pepper flakes introduces a subtle warmth and gentle heat, enhancing the overall profile without overpowering the dish. Adjust to your preferred spice level.
• Marinara Sauce: The heart of the dish! Whether you opt for your cherished homemade marinara or a high-quality store-bought version, ensure it’s rich and flavorful. This forms the luscious, tomato-based layer that binds everything together.
• Water: A small amount of water is crucial for maintaining moisture during the baking process, preventing the casserole from drying out and ensuring the pasta remains tender.
• Eggs: Just like in lasagna, beaten eggs act as a binder for the spaghetti. When tossed with the cooked noodles, they create a cohesive layer that holds its shape and adds to the dish’s structural integrity.
• Creamy Cheeses: The ultimate cheesy delight!
  • Parmesan Cheese (or Pecorino Romano): Grated Parmesan or the sharper Pecorino Romano adds a salty, nutty, and umami depth that is quintessential to Italian cooking.
  • Ricotta Cheese: Creamy ricotta cheese provides pockets of richness and a delightful textural contrast, reminiscent of lasagna. It keeps the casserole incredibly moist and flavorful.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella is essential for that iconic stretchy, gooey, and golden-brown topping. Its mild flavor perfectly complements the more robust ingredients.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and tossing with the pasta to prevent sticking and add flavor.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning each component to perfection, bringing out the best in every ingredient.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Cheesy Baked Spaghetti

Follow these detailed steps to create a show-stopping baked spaghetti casserole that will impress your family and friends. Each stage is designed to build flavor and ensure a perfectly layered, comforting meal.

1. Prepare the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Generously salt the water (it should taste like the sea!). Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente – this is crucial as the pasta will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the pasta thoroughly and let it cool slightly. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage (or ground beef), breaking it into smaller pieces with a spoon as it cooks. Continue to cook until the sausage is no longer pink and is nicely browned. Drain any excess fat and transfer the cooked sausage to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb further grease.

3. Sauté Aromatics: Return the skillet to medium-high heat, adding a touch of olive oil if needed after draining the sausage fat. Add the chopped onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they become translucent and softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for just another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

4. Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the marinara sauce and 1 cup of water into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Add the browned Italian sausage back into the pan. Stir in the Italian seasoning and chopped fresh parsley. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to very low and let it cook for 10 to 15 minutes while you prepare the pasta for layering. Taste and adjust seasoning with kosher salt and black pepper as needed.

5. Prepare the Pasta for Layering: Transfer the cooled, drained spaghetti to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss gently to coat the noodles, preventing them from clumping. Then, pour the two beaten eggs over the spaghetti and toss again until the pasta is evenly coated. This egg mixture will act as a binder, helping the spaghetti hold its shape in the casserole. Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.

6. First Layer Assembly: Spread half of the prepared spaghetti mixture evenly across the bottom of the greased 9×13 inch baking dish. This forms the sturdy base of your casserole. Dollop half of the rich meat sauce over the spaghetti layer. Then, dot the sauce with half of the creamy ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese, if preferred). Sprinkle half of the grated Parmesan (or Pecorino Romano) cheese evenly over the ricotta, followed by half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. This creates a wonderfully cheesy and flavorful first tier.

7. Second Layer & Baking: Repeat the layering process with the remaining pasta, sauce, ricotta cheese, Parmesan, and mozzarella. Once all layers are complete, cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. After 40 minutes, carefully remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 20 minutes uncovered, allowing the top layer of cheese to turn golden brown and bubbly.

Once removed from the oven, let your glorious baked spaghetti casserole rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This crucial resting period allows the layers to set, preventing a runny mess and ensuring each slice is perfect. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or grated Parmesan for a beautiful finish!

Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Baked Spaghetti

Baked spaghetti casserole is a complete and satisfying meal on its own, but pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate the dining experience even further. Think light, fresh, and complementary flavors to balance the richness of the pasta.

• Crisp Green Salad: A simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect counterpoint to the creamy, cheesy spaghetti. Consider an Arugula Fennel Salad for a refreshing, peppery crunch that cleanses the palate.
• Garlic Bread or Crusty Italian Bread: No Italian-inspired meal is complete without bread to sop up every last bit of delicious sauce. Garlic bread is a classic choice, or serve it with freshly baked Italian Bread. For those who love to plan ahead, Overnight Focaccia offers a wonderfully airy texture and rich olive oil flavor.
• Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini can add a healthy and vibrant element. Their slight char and natural sweetness complement the savory casserole beautifully.
• Wine Pairing: A medium-bodied red wine like a Chianti, Merlot, or Zinfandel would be an excellent choice. If you prefer white, a crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc could offer a refreshing contrast.

Expert Tips for the Best Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Achieving baked spaghetti perfection is within reach with these simple, yet impactful, tips:

• Salt the Pasta Water Generously: This is fundamental for flavorful pasta. The water should taste like the sea. Salting the water seasons the pasta from the inside out, providing a crucial base layer of flavor that carries through to the finished dish.
• Cook Spaghetti Al Dente: For baked spaghetti, it’s essential to cook the noodles slightly underdone, or “al dente,” during the initial boil. Since the dish will continue to bake in the oven, cooking them perfectly al dente ensures they don’t become mushy and retain a pleasant chewiness in the final casserole.
• Shred Your Own Cheese: While convenient, pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents like cellulose, which can prevent them from melting as smoothly and evenly as freshly grated cheese. For the creamiest, meltiest layers, take a few extra minutes to shred your own Parmesan and mozzarella from blocks. You’ll notice a significant difference in texture and flavor.
• Don’t Skimp on the Rest Time: After removing the casserole from the oven, resist the urge to cut into it immediately. Allowing it to rest for 10-15 minutes is crucial. This time allows the molten cheese and sauce to set, preventing the casserole from falling apart when served and ensuring clean, beautiful slices.
• Control the Spice: If using hot Italian sausage or red pepper flakes, taste your sauce as it simmers. You can always add more heat, but it’s difficult to reduce it. For a milder flavor, use sweet Italian sausage and reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
• Grease Your Baking Dish Well: To prevent sticking and make serving easier, always ensure your baking dish is thoroughly greased with cooking spray or a thin layer of olive oil before adding the first layer of spaghetti.

Flavorful Variations & Customization Ideas

One of the joys of baked spaghetti is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with these variations to tailor the dish to your taste or what you have on hand:

• Meat Substitutions: While Italian sausage adds a distinct flavor, don’t hesitate to try other ground meats:
  • Ground Beef: Lean ground beef or a beef/pork blend makes a classic, hearty meat sauce.
  • Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be used. Be sure to season it well, as these meats are milder in flavor.
  • Meatball Addition: For an extra special touch, slice cooked meatballs and layer them into the casserole along with the sauce.
• Vegetarian or Meatless Version: This casserole can easily be adapted for a meatless meal:
  • Mushrooms: Sautéed sliced mushrooms (cremini or button) can replace the meat, adding an earthy umami flavor.
  • Plant-Based Meat Crumbles: Many excellent plant-based ground meat substitutes are available and work wonderfully in this recipe.
  • Tofu or Lentils: Crumbled extra-firm tofu or cooked lentils can be incorporated into the marinara sauce for protein.
  • Added Vegetables: Enhance the sauce with finely diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Cheese Variations:
  • Cottage Cheese: If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese can be used as a substitute for a similar creamy texture.
  • Provolone or Fontina: Add slices of provolone or grated fontina cheese for different melting properties and flavor profiles.
  • Smoked Mozzarella: For a richer, smokier taste, try using smoked mozzarella.
• Herb Enhancements: Beyond parsley, consider adding fresh basil or oregano to your sauce for an even more vibrant, herbaceous flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Spaghetti

More Italian-Inspired Recipes to Savor

If you loved this baked spaghetti, you’ll surely enjoy these other comforting Italian-inspired dishes that bring warmth and flavor to your table:

• Foolproof Baked Ziti With Italian Sausage
• Italian Sausage Rigatoni with Spicy Tomato Cream Sauce
• Absolute Best Ever Lasagna Recipe

We hope this detailed guide encourages you to try our Baked Spaghetti Casserole recipe. It’s a truly satisfying dish that brings people together and makes for unforgettable meals. Enjoy the process of creating this flavorful masterpiece, and don’t hesitate to share your culinary creations with us!

Baked Spaghetti Recipe

Creamy, cheesy baked spaghetti casserole! An easy meal for any night of the week.

5 from 3 votes

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Course:
Dinner, Entree, Main Course, Pasta

Cuisine:
American, Italian

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cook Time:

1 hour
5 minutes

Total Time:

1 hour
20 minutes

Servings:
12

Calories:

455
kcal

Author:
Leigh Harris

Ingredients

• 
  
  3/4
  lb
  Thin Spaghetti
  
  
• 
  
  1
  lb
  Italian sausage
  
  
• 
  
  1
  medium
  onion, chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
  
  
• 
  
  2
  cloves
  Garlic
  pressed
  
  
• 
  
  1/2
  teaspoon
  Red Pepper flakes
  
  
• 
  
  3
  cups or
  24 ounces of
  Marinara
  
  
• 
  
  1
  cup
  water
  
  
• 
  
  1
  Tbsp
  Italian seasoning
  
  
• 
  
  1/2
  cup
  Fresh Parsley, chopped
  
  
• 
  
  1
  Tbsp
  Olive Oil
  
  
• 
  
  1
  cup
  Parmesan cheese, grated
  
  
• 
  
  2
  large
  eggs, beaten
  
  
• 
  
  1 1/2
  cups
  Ricotta Cheese
  
  
• 
  
  3
  cups
  Mozzarella Cheese, shredded
  
  

Instructions

1. Heat a large pot of water to boiling, add pasta and cook for 5 – 6 minutes, al dente. (it will continue to cook in the oven)
   3/4 lb Thin Spaghetti
2. Drain the pasta and let it cool.
3. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray.
4. In a large sauté pan. Turn the heat on, to medium. Slowly cook the sausage, breaking it up into smaller pieces. Cook until the sausage is cooked through, no longer pink anywhere, and lightly browned. Remove the sausage from the pan to a paper towel-lined dish.
   1 lb Italian sausage
5. Drain most of the fat from the pan.
6. Add the chopped onions to the pan. Increase the heat to medium-high. Cook, stirring frequently until the onions become translucent. Add the minced garlic and red chili pepper flakes, and cook a minute more.
   1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 1/2 cups),
   2 cloves Garlic,
   1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper flakes
7. Add the marinara sauce and water to the pan with the onions. Add the sausage back, Italian seasoning, and chopped parsley. Bring to a simmer and reduce the heat to a very low simmer. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, while you prepare the pasta. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
   3 cups or 24 ounces of Marinara,
   1 cup water,
   1 Tbsp Italian seasoning,
   1/2 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped
8. Place the cooled pasta in a large bowl. Toss with olive oil, then 2 beaten eggs.
   1 Tbsp Olive Oil,
   2 large eggs, beaten
9. Place half of the pasta in an even layer in the casserole dish.
10. Cover with half of the sauce. Then dot the sauce with half of the ricotta cheese. Sprinkle half of the parmesan over the ricotta layer and then half of the mozzarella. Layer again with the remaining pasta, sauce, parmesan, and mozzarella.
    1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated,
    1 1/2 cups Ricotta Cheese,
    3 cups Mozzarella Cheese, shredded
11. Cover with foil and bake for 40 min at 350°F. Remove the foil and bake an additional 20 minutes uncovered.
12. Remove from oven and let rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.

Notes

Originally published 10/12/2015

Cook the pasta al dente in salted water. The pasta will continue to cook while baking.

Make Ahead – Bake the dish, cool completely, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. You will probably need to bake it for an additional 10 minutes or more.

Storing and Freezing – Place the cooled casserole in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.

 

Nutrition

Calories:
455
kcal

|

Carbohydrates:
28
g

|

Protein:
24
g

|

Fat:
27
g

|

Saturated Fat:
13
g

|

Cholesterol:
109
mg

|

Sodium:
946
mg

|

Potassium:
471
mg

|

Fiber:
2
g

|

Sugar:
4
g

|

Vitamin A:
957
IU

|

Vitamin C:
9
mg

|

Calcium:
337
mg

|

Iron:
2
mg