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.
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.
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.
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:
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?
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.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, grated Parmesan, chopped basil, salt, and pepper.
for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional basil if desired.
Servings 1
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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