Welcome to your new favorite comfort food: the Easy Baked Spaghetti Recipe. Imagine pulling a bubbling dish of golden, cheese-laden spaghetti from your oven, the scent of herby tomato sauce and creamy ricotta filling the air, promising a hearty meal that’s as satisfying to serve as it is to eat.
Why Try This Baked Spaghetti Recipe?
Baked spaghetti is more than just a dinner option; it’s a versatile, forgiving, and crowd-pleasing dish that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. The addition of ricotta cheese elevates it from the everyday to the exceptional, adding a creamy richness that’s hard to resist. This easy recipe for baked spaghetti combines the comforting textures and flavors of traditional Italian cooking with the ease of a one-pan meal. Plus, it’s perfect for make-ahead meals or leftovers that taste even better the next day.
What’s the Origin of Baked Spaghetti?
The concept of baking pasta, particularly spaghetti, in a casserole form, likely has roots in both Italian and Italian-American cuisines. Traditional Italian dishes such as “pasta al forno” (oven-baked pasta) often feature layers of pasta mixed with cheeses, meat, and tomato sauce—similar to lasagna but using different pasta shapes. When Italians migrated to the United States, they adapted their recipes to the ingredients and tastes of their new home, giving rise to unique and hearty dishes like this baked spaghetti with ricotta.
This recipe is inspired by the generous and communal spirit of Italian-American households, where food is not just sustenance but a reason to gather and celebrate. Baked spaghetti casserole embodies the simplicity and creativity of combining readily available ingredients to create a dish that feels special and tastes like home.
What are the Benefits of Baked Spaghetti?
Baked spaghetti isn’t just delicious; it’s also a practical choice for busy lives. Here are some reasons why this dish is a fantastic option:
- Versatility: It can be adapted to include different proteins, vegetables, or cheeses. Whether you’re looking to use up leftovers or cater to various dietary preferences, this dish can handle it.
- Convenience: Assemble it ahead of time and bake when you’re ready. It’s perfect for a stress-free dinner after a busy day.
- Family-friendly: Loved by adults and kids alike, it’s a great way to introduce different flavors and ingredients in a familiar format.
- Nutritious: Packed with the goodness of tomatoes, cheese, and your choice of add-ins, it can be a balanced meal in one dish.
Excited yet? Let’s dive into how you can bring this comforting baked spaghetti to your table. Stay tuned for the details on ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to make your spaghetti casserole a success. Would you like to continue with the next section where we’ll detail the ingredients and how to prepare this delightful dish?
Easy Baked Spaghetti Recipe with ricotta
Description
This Easy Baked Spaghetti with Ricotta combines the hearty allure of meaty marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella with perfectly cooked spaghetti for a comforting casserole that’s sure to please. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy meal, this dish is both satisfying and simple to prepare, making it an ideal recipe for any day of the week.
Ingredients & How to Make Baked Spaghetti with Ricotta
For the Spaghetti and Sauce:
For the Ricotta Mixture:
For Topping:
Instructions of Baked Spagetti with Ricotta
Preparing the Components:
Preheating:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cooking;
Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.Make the meat sauce:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until they are soft and fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain excess grease. Stir in the marinara sauce and oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
Prepare the ricotta mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, grated Parmesan, chopped basil, salt, and pepper.
Assembling the Casserole:
Combining;
Combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce in the pot or a large bowl, mixing until evenly coated.Laying;
Layer half of the sauced spaghetti in the baking dish. Spread the ricotta mixture over the spaghetti evenly. Top with the remaining spaghetti and sauce.Topping
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top.
Baking:
Bake in the preheated oven;
for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Serving:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional basil if desired.
Equipments Needed;
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Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 600kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 25g39%
- Cholesterol 105mg35%
- Total Carbohydrate 70g24%
- Dietary Fiber 5g20%
- Sugars 7g
- Protein 40g80%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of garlic or add chili flakes if you prefer your casserole with a bit more kick.
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until thoroughly warmed.
- Freezing Instructions: This casserole freezes well. Freeze before or after baking; just be sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side salad or garlic bread to round out the meal.
- Kid-Friendly Tip: For picky eaters, you can keep the ingredients simple or customize portions of the casserole without certain ingredients.
User Reviews
last night I cooked for my family this Baked Spaghetti Recipe and my mom asks me the recipe lol. I shared your site with her. she got happy 🙂