If you’ve been searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s flavorful yet fuss-free, this Easy Baked Spaghetti Recipe is going to become your new go-to. It’s one of those wonderfully simple dishes that marries tender pasta with a rich, hearty meat sauce, all topped with a gooey, melted blend of cheeses. The magic lies in how this recipe turns classic spaghetti into a baked casserole, adding a delightful, slightly crispy cheese crust that everyone will love. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing for friends, this dish promises a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You really only need a handful of ingredients to whip up this Easy Baked Spaghetti Recipe, but each one plays a key role. From the perfectly cooked spaghetti providing the base, to the savory beef and aromatic herbs layering flavor, right through to the blend of cheeses giving it that irresistible topping — the simplicity here is what makes the dish shine.
- 1 pound uncooked spaghetti: It’s important to slightly undercook the pasta so it doesn’t get mushy after baking.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Offers a rich, meaty texture without too much grease.
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and depth when cooked with the beef.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning: Brings in that classic Italian herb flavor that lifts the entire dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Gives a gentle kick if you like a little heat.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic’s essential for adding warmth and aroma.
- 4 cups marinara sauce: The tomato base that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella: Melts superbly for that stringy cheesy goodness.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar: Adds sharpness and vibrant color to the topping.
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: For a nutty, savory finish on top.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Key for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, to taste): A fresh pop of color and brightness at the end.
How to Make Easy Baked Spaghetti Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Moving the oven rack to the top third ensures a nice even bake and helps the cheese crisp up beautifully. While the oven warms, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for your spaghetti. Cook the spaghetti for just two minutes less than the package recommends—this careful timing keeps your pasta firm enough to avoid a mushy texture once baked.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Sauté the Onion
Next, in a skillet, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook this mixture over medium-high heat. The fat from the beef will soften the onions wonderfully, but if your beef is especially lean, throwing in a tablespoon of olive oil will make sure nothing sticks or burns. Continue cooking until the meat is nicely browned and fully cooked through, about 10 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it so your sauce doesn’t become greasy.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Marinara Sauce
Once the beef and onions are perfect, stir in the minced garlic and cook just long enough to release its bold aroma—about one minute. Then pour in the marinara sauce, letting all the flavors marry over gentle heat. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper at this stage to enhance the robust profile of the sauce.
Step 4: Combine Spaghetti and Sauce
Transfer your drained, barely cooked spaghetti directly into a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Pour the warm beef sauce over the pasta and toss everything together until every strand of spaghetti is coated in that rich, savory sauce. Smooth everything out into an even layer so it bakes consistently.
Step 5: Top and Bake
Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and grated parmesan cheese evenly over the pasta. This three-cheese mix ensures a combo of melty stretchiness, sharp tang, and savory depth. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and bubble. For an added golden crust, you can broil the top for a few minutes—just keep a close watch so it doesn’t burn. Let the casserole sit for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to help it set slightly for easy slicing.
How to Serve Easy Baked Spaghetti Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top isn’t just for looks—it adds a fresh herbal note and a pop of vibrant green that brightens the dish. If you like a little extra flair, a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes before serving can elevate the flavor even further.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides. A crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while garlic bread is a classic companion that soaks up every last bit of sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans provide color and nutrition, balancing out this hearty meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get a little fancy for guests or family dinners, serve individual portions in ramekins baked until bubbly. You can also layer in some sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers for twists on the original. Adding fresh basil leaves or a dollop of ricotta on top just before serving brings an unexpected creamy lift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Easy Baked Spaghetti Recipe keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors have time to meld further, making leftovers just as delightful—if not more so—than the first serving.
Freezing
This dish freezes like a dream. To freeze, bake as directed but stop just before adding the cheese topping; freeze the casserole tightly wrapped or in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, add cheese, and bake fresh to get that lovely bubbly top.
Reheating
When reheating, cover the dish with foil and warm in a 350-degree oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to refresh the cheese crust. Alternatively, single portions can be microwaved, although they won’t keep the same baked texture.
FAQs
Can I use other meats besides ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage all work wonderfully in this recipe. Adjust cooking times slightly if using sausage, and consider removing casings beforehand for easy browning.
What if I don’t have marinara sauce?
You can swap in any good-quality tomato sauce or even homemade crushed tomatoes seasoned with herbs. Just be sure to taste and adjust seasoning before combining with the pasta.
Is it necessary to broil the cheese topping?
Broiling is optional but highly recommended if you enjoy a golden, bubbly cheese crust. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, especially if your oven heats unevenly.
Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free spaghetti and make sure your marinara sauce and other ingredients have no hidden gluten. The rest of the process stays the same for a delicious gluten-free meal.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the meat sauce while cooking. A pinch of cayenne pepper can also add some extra heat without overpowering the flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Baked Spaghetti Recipe is a total winner in both simplicity and flavor. It’s that perfect weeknight dish you’ll turn to again and again when you want something hearty, cheesy, and just plain delicious. Don’t be shy to customize and make it your own — once you try it, I’m confident it’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen, just like it is in mine. Happy baking and even happier eating!
Print
Easy Baked Spaghetti Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Easy Baked Spaghetti is a comforting and hearty casserole combining perfectly cooked spaghetti with a savory seasoned ground beef marinara sauce, topped with a blend of melted mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan cheeses. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s a simple yet delicious meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound uncooked spaghetti
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, if beef is very lean)
Cheese Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and position the rack in the top third of the oven for even baking.
- Cook Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the spaghetti and cook it until 2 minutes less than package directions indicate to keep it slightly firm. Drain the pasta and transfer it to a 9×13-inch casserole or baking dish.
- Brown Meat and Vegetables: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. If the beef is very lean and not releasing enough fat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Stir occasionally as the meat browns and the onions soften, about 10 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Garlic and Sauce: Stir minced garlic into the meat mixture and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the marinara sauce and simmer for a few minutes until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the beef and marinara sauce mixture over the drained spaghetti in the casserole dish. Toss gently to coat all the pasta evenly and smooth the top layer.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and freshly grated parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Optional Broil: For a golden browned cheese crust, broil for a few minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the baked spaghetti to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing into squares with a spatula. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Cooking pasta slightly under done prevents it from becoming mushy after baking.
- If using very lean ground beef, adding olive oil helps cook the onion and adds flavor.
- Broiling at the end is optional and gives a nicely browned cheesy crust—watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Fresh parsley garnish adds a fresh, vibrant touch but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for 3–4 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
- For spice lovers, adjust crushed red pepper flakes to taste or omit for milder flavor.
