Description
A quick, comforting baked spaghetti casserole that transforms simple pantry ingredients into a rich, cheesy meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound (450g) spaghetti noodles
- 2 cups (480ml) marinara sauce
- 0.5 pound (225g) lean ground beef or turkey
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups (225g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add spaghetti and cook 1-2 minutes less than package directions (slightly firm). Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent (about 3 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add ground beef or turkey to the skillet. Break up with a wooden spoon and cook until no pink remains (5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
- Pour marinara sauce into the skillet with the meat. Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.
- In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine drained pasta and meat sauce. Toss to coat. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the pasta. Cover with aluminum foil.
- Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 15 minutes.
- Remove foil and broil on high for 2-3 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow sauce to thicken.
Notes
Do not overcook the pasta initially as it will finish cooking in the oven. Shred your own cheese for better melting. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or broth. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to help it set.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 475
- Sugar: 6
- Sodium: 850
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 25
Keywords: baked spaghetti, casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, weeknight meals, cheesy pasta, family friendly