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A baked spaghetti recipe that combines layers of tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, seasoned ground beef, and gooey melted mozzarella cheese. This hearty casserole is easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meals. With customizable options for proteins and vegetables, itu2019s a versatile dish that caters to a variety of tastes. Serve it alongside garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients

¾ lb. spaghetti
1 pound ground beef (can also use ground sausage or turkey)
1 medium onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon seasoned salt
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
32 oz. marinara sauce
8 oz. ricotta cheese (equal to 1 cup)
2 tablespoons cream cheese, at room temperature
⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
4 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
Parsley for garnish

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. While waiting for the water to boil, proceed with the next steps.
Cook the Meat and Vegetables:
- Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the seasoned salt, Italian seasoning, diced onions, and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute.
Prepare the Sauce:
- Stir in the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and cream cheese. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture heat through, stirring occasionally.
Combine with Spaghetti:
- Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet. Use kitchen tongs to gently toss the pasta with the sauce until evenly combined. (Note: The mixture will be very saucy, but the pasta will absorb more of it during baking.)
Layer the Dish:
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Add half of the spaghetti mixture to the dish and top with 2 cups of shredded mozzarella.
- Layer the remaining spaghetti on top, followed by the remaining 2 cups of mozzarella.
Bake:
- If serving immediately, bake the casserole uncovered for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is hot and melted. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Family Favorite: A comforting classic that everyone loves.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.
Customizable: Easy to adapt with different proteins, cheeses, or vegetables.
Rich and Cheesy: Layers of gooey mozzarella make every bite irresistible.

Tips

Even Cooking: Cook spaghetti until just al dente to avoid overcooking during baking.
Room Temperature Cheese: Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for easier mixing.
Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for added flavor and presentation.
Freezing Option: Assemble the dish but skip baking. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Options: Swap ground beef for sausage, turkey, or a meatless alternative.
Cheese Choices: Substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or use a blend of mozzarella and provolone.
Add Veggies: Include mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients.
Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

What can I use instead of marinara sauce?
You can use any pasta sauce, like tomato basil or arrabbiata, for a different flavor profile.

Can I halve the recipe?
Yes, use an 8×8-inch baking dish and adjust ingredient quantities accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Serve with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or steamed vegetables.
Wine Pairing: Pair with a medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or Chianti.
Leftover Ideas: Use as a filling for stuffed bell peppers or turn it into a pasta bake sandwich.

This baked spaghetti recipe is a cheesy, flavorful casserole perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to special gatherings.