Some of my best childhood memories involve sitting around the dinner table with my family, eagerly waiting for my mom to pull a bubbling, cheesy dish out of the oven.
One of our go-to favorites? Baked Spaghetti Casserole. It’s the perfect blend of pasta, savory meat sauce, and layers of gooey cheese, all baked together to perfection.
Now, as a parent, I find myself making this dish often because it’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare ahead of time!
Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti Casserole
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and easy steps make this a no-fuss recipe.
- Kid-Approved – The cheesy, saucy goodness is always a win with the little ones.
- Great for Leftovers – The flavors meld beautifully, making it even better the next day.
- Freezer-Friendly – You can make it ahead and freeze it for later.
- Customizable – Add veggies, swap proteins, or adjust the spice level to your liking.
Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
For this delicious casserole recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Casserole:
- 16 ounces spaghetti – The foundation of this dish, perfectly cooked to hold the sauce and cheese.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts into a gooey, delicious topping.
- 1/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp, nutty depth of flavor.
- 1 1/2 tbsp dried parsley – Brings a fresh and vibrant touch.
For the Sauce:
- 32 ounces pasta sauce – Choose your favorite jarred sauce or make a homemade one.
- 1 can of tomatoes (14.5 ounces) – Adds a rich, slightly chunky texture to the sauce.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning – A perfect blend of herbs for a classic Italian taste.
- 1 lb ground beef – Provides a hearty, savory base.
- 1 red or green bell pepper– Brings a subtle sweetness and crunch.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – Enhances the depth of flavor in the sauce.
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with a rich, aromatic taste.
- Salt and peper to taste – Balances and enhances all the flavors.
Optional Add-Ons
- Red pepper flakes – For those who like a little heat.
- Mushrooms – Adds an earthy depth.
- Ground turkey or Italian sausage – Swap out the beef for a different protein.
- Ricotta cheese – Creates an extra creamy layer.
- Spinach – A sneaky way to add greens for extra nutrition.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Baking dish (9×13 inch)
- Colander
- Mixing spoon
- Cheese grater
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until just shy of al dente, about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions. Since the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, this prevents it from becoming mushy. Drain and toss with a little olive oil to keep it from sticking together, then set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned. Drain any excess grease if needed. Next, add the diced bell pepper, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Sauté everything for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant. Stir in the canned tomatoes, pasta sauce, Italian seasoning, and salt. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little oil or non-stick spray. Spread half of the cooked spaghetti evenly across the bottom. Pour half of the meat sauce over the pasta, making sure to distribute it evenly. Sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti, sauce, and cheese, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. If you love an extra crispy top, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting into it. This helps everything set and makes serving easier. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy!
Best Paired With
- Garlic bread – Because you can never have too many carbs!
- Caesar salad – A crisp, refreshing side to balance the richness.
- Roasted vegetables – For a healthy addition to the meal.
Storage and Serving
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Assemble the casserole and freeze before baking. When ready, bake from frozen at 375°F for about an hour.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes or microwave individual portions.
Tips for Success
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
- Let the casserole rest before cutting to keep layers intact.
- Undercook pasta slightly so it doesn’t become mushy while baking.
Substitutes and Variations
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
- Swap out ground beef for plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option.
- Try different cheeses like provolone or gouda for a unique flavor twist.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbs | 50g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 6g |
What Others Are Saying About The Recipe
Daphne T. – “I made this for my in-laws last weekend, and they couldn’t stop raving about it.”
Eleanor K. – “I swapped beef for turkey, and it was still amazing. Loved the cheesy layers!”
Hugo B. – “Great for meal prep! I froze individual portions and heated them up for quick lunches.”
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just bake when ready.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, rotini, or fettuccine all work well.
How do I make it vegetarian?
Omit the meat and add mushrooms or lentils for a hearty alternative.
Final Thoughts
The first time I made this casserole, I worried it wouldn’t live up to my mom’s version. But when I saw my family diving in, just like we did when I was a kid, I knew it was a hit! If you’re anything like me, you love a meal that’s easy, cheesy, and makes everyone at the table happy. This baked spaghetti casserole does just that. Make it your own, enjoy every bite, and let me know your favorite way to serve it!