Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Nothing says comfort food like a warm, cheesy baked spaghetti casserole. This dish combines tender spaghetti, savory meat sauce, and a creamy cheese layer, baked to golden perfection. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week. Whether you’re hosting guests or simply craving a hearty meal, this casserole will deliver delicious flavors every time. In just over an hour, you can prepare a dish that pleases kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• 16 oz spaghetti
• 2 (24 oz) jars spaghetti sauce or marinara sauce
• 1 ¼ lbs ground beef or sweet Italian sausage
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 4 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 egg, room temperature
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
• Chopped fresh Italian parsley (for garnish)
• Chopped fresh basil (for garnish)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti until just shy of al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sweet Italian sausage until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
   • Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens.
   • Stir in the spaghetti or marinara sauce. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, then remove from heat.
3. Mix the Cheese Layer
   • In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, ricotta cheese, egg, sour cream, and Italian seasoning. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the Casserole
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the dish.
   • Layer half of the cooked spaghetti over the sauce.
   • Spread half of the cheese mixture over the spaghetti.
   • Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella and ½ cup of provolone cheese evenly over the cheese mixture.
   • Add another layer of the meat sauce, followed by the remaining spaghetti, the remaining cheese mixture, and the rest of the mozzarella and provolone cheese.
5. Bake
   • Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve
   • Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
   • Garnish with freshly chopped Italian parsley and basil.
   • Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors.

Pro Tips for Success

• For a lighter version, use lean ground beef and low-fat cream cheese.
• Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the meat sauce.
• To save time, prepare the casserole ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

The baked spaghetti casserole is more than just a meal—it’s a dish that brings people together with its rich layers of flavor and comforting appeal. From the creamy cheese layer to the hearty meat sauce, every bite is a delight. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this casserole will leave everyone asking for seconds. Try it today and make it a staple in your recipe collection!