Cheesy Baked Spaghetti
Introduction
Welcome to our delicious and comforting recipe for Cheesy Baked Spaghetti. This dish is the perfect combination of flavors, with tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and a generous amount of melted cheese. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply want to indulge in a comforting meal, this Cheesy Baked Spaghetti recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
To make this mouthwatering Cheesy Baked Spaghetti, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the spaghetti and set it aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until it is browned and cooked through. Make sure to break up any large chunks of meat with a spoon or spatula.
4. Pour the crushed tomatoes into the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked spaghetti on top of the sauce. Pour half of the remaining sauce over the spaghetti and sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti, sauce, and cheeses. Make sure to evenly distribute the cheese over the top layer.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
8. Once the Cheesy Baked Spaghetti is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, and serve hot.
Variations
There are endless ways to customize this Cheesy Baked Spaghetti recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
– Vegetarian Option: Skip the ground beef and add your favorite vegetables, such as sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
– Spicy Kick: If you like some heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce.
– Cheesy Twist: Experiment with different types of cheese, like cheddar or provolone, or mix in some ricotta cheese for added creaminess.
Tips
Follow these helpful tips to ensure your Cheesy Baked Spaghetti turns out perfectly:
– Be sure not to overcook the spaghetti when boiling it, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
– Use a large skillet or pot to sauté the onion, garlic, and ground beef, as this will prevent any sauce from splattering.
– Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to the sauce to enhance the flavors. Italian seasoning, parsley, or thyme are all great options.
– For a crispy, golden cheese topping, broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.
Conclusion
Cheesy Baked Spaghetti is a comforting and flavorful dish that will satisfy any pasta lover. With its layers of pasta, savory tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a delicious plate of Cheesy Baked Spaghetti.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the Cheesy Baked Spaghetti ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just make sure to increase the baking time slightly if you’re starting with a cold dish.
2. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, Cheesy Baked Spaghetti freezes well. Simply divide the leftovers into individual portions, place them in airtight containers, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
3. Can I use a different type of pasta?
While spaghetti is traditional for this recipe, you can certainly experiment with other types of pasta, such as penne or rigatoni. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
4. Can I use store-bought sauce instead of making my own?
If you’re short on time, you can use your favorite store-bought tomato sauce instead of making your own. Just choose a high-quality sauce for the best flavor.
5. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the sauce or layer them between the spaghetti and sauce. Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach would all be delicious additions.
