Baked Spaghetti
If you love a good plate of spaghetti but want something a little more satisfying and hearty, this baked spaghetti casserole is the way to go. It’s packed with layers of saucy pasta, seasoned ground beef, and melty cheese, all baked to bubbly perfection. It’s easy to throw together and makes fantastic leftovers!
This baked spaghetti with ground beef is one of those reliable recipes that works for so many occasions. It’s quick and easy for a busy weeknight but also comforting enough to serve at Sunday dinner. It also makes a great make-ahead pasta bake since the leftovers hold up so well and reheat beautifully. If you’re craving lasagna but don’t want the fuss, this cheesy baked pasta is your shortcut to the same flavors in half the time.
Why you’ll love this Baked Spaghetti
Spaghetti, But Make It a Casserole
This isn’t some over-the-top pasta bake. It’s just good, cheesy baked spaghetti with ground beef—straightforward and satisfying. I’ve made this more times than I can count because it’s simple, filling, and easy to throw together when you’re craving something hearty. It hits the spot every time. Plus, you probably already have most of the ingredients in the kitchen.
Ingredients Needed for Baked Spaghetti
- Spaghetti: This is your base. Standard spaghetti noodles hold the sauce well and bake up perfectly. You can swap in other pasta shapes, but spaghetti gives the most classic texture.
- Olive oil: Used for browning the beef and building flavor in the pan.
- Ground beef: A lean ground beef adds rich flavor and protein. Italian sausage is also a great option if you want more spice.
- Onion and garlic: These aromatics bring depth and a homemade feel to the meat sauce. Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder will work in a pinch.
- Marinara sauce: Try my Homemade Marinara if you have time, but a good-quality jarred marinara will keep things simple. Look for one with no added sugar and plenty of herbs.
- Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper: These pantry spices add balance and flavor to the sauce. Don’t skip them.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts into that golden, gooey topping everyone loves in a baked pasta dish.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, salty layer of flavor that really brings the whole thing together.
How to make Baked Spaghetti
**For more detailed instructions, please refer to the printable recipe card below.**
Boil the spaghetti in salted water until al dente, then drain.
Brown the ground beef in olive oil, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess oil.
Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened and fragrant.
Stir in the Marinara Sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer to bring the flavors together.
Combine the cooked spaghetti with the sauce, then spread into a greased baking dish.
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan on top, and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Variations
- Spicy Baked Spaghetti: Add crushed red pepper flakes or swap in hot Italian sausage for the ground beef to give your casserole a spicy twist.
- Meat Lovers Version: Add chopped bacon, diced ham, or even pepperoni to the sauce for a heartier spin on this family dinner recipe.
- Veggie-Packed Baked Spaghetti: Add sautéed zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the sauce to sneak in some extra vegetables.
- Creamy Baked Spaghetti: Stir in a few spoonfuls of ricotta or softened cream cheese with the pasta for a richer, creamier texture.
- Extra Cheesy: Add layers of provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a cheesier finish. A sprinkle of cheese inside and on top gives more melt in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
- With Garlic Bread: This baked spaghetti casserole begs for a side of crispy garlic bread or Garlic Knots to soak up the extra sauce.
- Fresh Side Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness and makes the meal feel balanced. You could try this Grilled Peach Salad!
- Roasted Veggies: Serve it with a tray of roasted vegetables like zucchini, Honey Glazed Carrots, or Brussels sprouts for an easy side dish.
- Topped with Herbs: Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or parsley just before serving for color and a fresh pop of flavor.
- On a Pasta Night Spread: Make this the main dish and add sides like Caesar salad, caprese skewers, or even Meatballs Casserole to turn it into a pasta night feast.
Storage and Freezing
- How should I store Baked Spaghetti
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of water to keep it from drying out.
- Can I freeze Baked Spaghetti
Assemble the entire baked spaghetti in a freezer-safe dish and wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.
Don’t forget to pin this for later!
Tips & Tricks
- Cook Pasta Slightly Under: Undercook the spaghetti by a minute so it doesn’t go mushy while baking. It’ll finish cooking in the oven and hold its texture.
- Use a Deep Baking Dish: This recipe makes a full pan of pasta, so using a deep dish helps prevent overflow and keeps everything bubbling inside.
- Let It Rest Before Serving: Letting the baked pasta rest for 5 to 10 minutes after it comes out of the oven helps everything set up and makes it easier to serve.
- Grate Cheese Fresh: Freshly grated cheese melts smoother and has better flavor than pre-shredded cheese, which has anti-caking agents.
- Double It for Meal Prep: Make a second pan and freeze it for a busy weeknight. Just pull it from the freezer and let it thaw overnight.
Recommended
More Pasta Mains
FAQ
Baked Spaghetti
Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Baking dish
Ingredients
- 16 oz spaghetti
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 jar marinara sauce (around 32oz) (Or make my homemade marinara)
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook spaghetti in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add ground beef, and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Stir in onion and garlic, cooking for 2 minutes. Add marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Combine cooked spaghetti with the sauce and transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan on top, then bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
