Looking for a crowd-pleasing pasta dish that’s both cozy and easy to prepare? Cheesy Baked Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food — combining the richness of a baked casserole with the timeless appeal of classic spaghetti. Layers of tender pasta, savory tomato meat sauce, and gooey melted cheese come together in a golden, bubbly finish that feels like home with every bite.
Perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or a weeknight dinner, this dish is kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and endlessly customizable.
Ingredients
Serves 6 to 8
For the Pasta and Sauce
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (about 24 ounces) marinara or pasta sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese Layers
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 cup ricotta cheese or cottage cheese
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 25 to 30 minutes
- Total time: 45 to 50 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add spaghetti and cook until just al dente (about 1 minute less than the package directions).
- Drain, rinse lightly with warm water, and toss with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef and onion. Cook until browned and onion is soft, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Stir in garlic, cook for 1 minute more.
- Add marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Reduce heat and let simmer for 5 to 10 minutes. Season to taste.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Filling
- In a medium bowl, mix ricotta (or cottage cheese) with the egg, half of the Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom.
- Layer half the spaghetti, followed by half the ricotta mixture and half the meat sauce.
- Sprinkle with a mix of mozzarella and cheddar.
- Repeat layers with remaining ingredients. Top with remaining mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Uncover and bake another 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Pair with a glass of red wine such as Chianti or Zinfandel.
- Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or chili oil for a spicy kick.
- For extra protein, stir in chopped spinach or cooked lentils with the meat sauce.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 of 8) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 460 |
| Protein | 26 grams |
| Total Fat | 21 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 10 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 40 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sugars | 6 grams |
| Sodium | 680 milligrams |
Key Benefits:
- Balanced macronutrients from pasta, beef, and cheese support energy and fullness.
- Calcium-rich cheeses offer bone support and flavor depth.
- Marinara sauce provides lycopene and antioxidants from tomatoes.
- Easy to adapt for lower-carb or gluten-free diets with substitutions.
Tips for Best Results
- Undercook the pasta slightly to avoid over-softening during baking.
- Let the casserole rest before slicing — this helps it hold its shape.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor.
- Make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding mushrooms or zucchini.
Variations to Try
- Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat sauce for extra texture.
- Swap ricotta for cream cheese for a richer, tangier filling.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
- Make it spicy with hot Italian sausage or red pepper flakes.
Cheesy Baked Spaghetti is a timeless classic that brings all the comfort of a hearty pasta dish with the fun of a baked casserole. With simple steps, customizable ingredients, and loads of gooey cheese, this recipe is perfect for families, entertaining, or freezing for future meals.
Delicious, satisfying, and easy to make — it’s a go-to dish that you’ll come back to again and again.