Hearty Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Recipe Introduction: look into into Comfort

Fancy some proper comfort food? You know, the kind that makes you wanna curl up on the sofa with a blanket and a good movie? Baked Spaghetti Casserole Is as close to a hug as you can get from a plate of food.

This Baked Spaghetti Casserole is pure joy, proper lush, and takes a twist of the linked taste of home recipe.

A Taste of Italy, Made Easy

Spaghetti Casserole , or pasta bake, is proper Italian American cuisine, innit? It’s basically Italy meets America in a casserole dish.

This Comfort food recipe is easy enough for a weeknight meal. It only takes about an hour and fifteen minutes from start to finish.

This Baked Spaghetti Recipe makes 6-8 hearty servings.

Casserole Champion

This isn't just any Spaghetti Casserole . It has all the good stuff. A meaty sauce, proper cheesy Ricotta cheese casserole , and loads of bubbly mozzarella.

It is packed with protein and carbs to keep you going. Honestly, it's the perfect Family dinner ideas and proper fit for a potluck.

This Pasta bake with meat sauce is proper special because it's so darn versatile.

Get Your Gear Ready: Time for Ingredients

Right, let's talk ingredients. Get your olive oil, onion, garlic, and minced beef ready. Don't forget your oregano, basil, and that cheeky pinch of red pepper flakes.

Grab a can of crushed tomatoes and some tomato sauce. And, most importantly, get your Spaghetti Noodles prepped. Let's get cooking.

Are you ready to dive into this Easy casserole recipes ?

Ingredients & Equipment

Right, so you wanna make this incredible Baked Spaghetti Casserole? Trust me, you're in for a treat. This Baked Spaghetti Casserole Is as easy as pie.

Okay, almost as easy. Let’s break down what you need.

Main Ingredients: The A-Team

Alright, here is the ingredient lineup, and the best way to select these.

• Olive Oil: 1 tbsp (15 ml) . Get a decent extra virgin olive oil. It makes a difference.
• Onion: 1 large , chopped. That's roughly 1 cup (150g) . Yellow or white, your call.
• Garlic: 2 cloves , minced. Fresh is best. No arguments.
• Ground Beef: 1 lb (450g) . Lean is good, but a little fat adds flavor, you know?
• Dried Oregano: 1 tsp . Smells divine, doesn’t it?
• Dried Basil: ½ tsp . Essential Italian flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ tsp (optional). Adds a nice kick. If you like heat, go for it!
• Crushed Tomatoes: 1 (28 oz) can (794g) . Good quality crushed tomatoes make all the difference. Seriously.
• Tomato Sauce: 1 (15 oz) can (425g) . Standard tomato sauce will do.
• Water: ½ cup (120 ml) . Just plain water.
• Sugar: 1 tsp . Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Season generously, my friend.
• Spaghetti: 1 lb (450g) . Standard Spaghetti Noodles . Don’t overcook it later!
• Ricotta Cheese: 15 oz (425g) . Full fat is the way to go. Trust me. This aint no diet Ricotta cheese casserole .
• Egg: 1 large , lightly beaten. Helps bind the Ricotta Cheese mixture.
• Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup (25g) , grated. Plus extra for topping. The good stuff, if you can get it.
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup (5g) , chopped. Adds a fresh touch.
• Mozzarella Cheese: 8 oz (225g) , shredded. Melts beautifully. This is the part that will make your Pasta bake with meat sauce incredible.

Seasoning Notes: Spice It Up!

Oregano and basil are non-negotiable for that classic Italian vibe. A pinch of red pepper flakes? Oh my gosh! , yes please! For extra depth, a bay leaf simmered in the sauce is chefs kiss.

If you are missing one of the key spices, you can always use an Italian seasoning mix. I have done that when I was missing basil.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

• Large Pot: For boiling the Spaghetti Noodles .
• Large Skillet: For cooking the meat sauce.
• 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) Baking Dish: Essential for baking the casserole. Any similar size will work though.
• Mixing Bowls: For mixing the Ricotta Cheese and other ingredients.

That's all there is to it! This Comfort food recipe is a great use for this equipment, and so are many other Easy casserole recipes .

I swear, once you’ve made this Baked Spaghetti Recipe , you'll be hooked. Time to create some Italian American cuisine magic.

I am confident you will be the star of the family reunions by making this awesome Family dinner ideas . Lets get cooking!

Hearty Baked Spaghetti Casserole: Comfort Food Champions

Right, let's dive straight into this Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe , shall we? Forget ready meals; this is the real deal .

A proper, comfort food recipe that’ll knock your socks off. Honestly, Baked Spaghetti Casserole Is as comforting as a warm hug on a rainy day maybe even more so.

So, grab your apron, and let’s get cracking!

Prep Like a Pro: Setting the Stage for Casserole Glory

Essential mise en place? It's the name of the game. Chop your onion, mince your garlic, and get those ingredients lined up like soldiers.

Trust me, it saves time and prevents kitchen disasters. You know that awful moment when you burn the garlic because you're still looking for oregano? Never again! And please, wash your hands! You would be surprised with the lack of hygene in people cooking skills.

The Baked Spaghetti Casserole step-by-step Tango

Here’s the lowdown on how to transform simple ingredients into an amazing Spaghetti Casserole .

1. Cook 1 lb (450g) Spaghetti Noodles until al dente . Nobody likes mushy pasta. Drain it well!
2. Brown 1 lb (450g) ground beef in a large skillet. Drain the excess fat. No one wants an oily casserole.
3. Simmer your sauce: Stir in 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp dried basil, 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes, 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce, 1/2 cup (120 ml) water, 1 tsp sugar, salt and pepper. Simmer for 15- 20 minutes. This is where the magic happens!
4. Mix 15 oz (425g) ricotta cheese, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup (25g) Parmesan, and 1/4 cup (5g) parsley. Season it well! That ricotta mixture is the soul of the casserole.
5. Preheat your oven to 375° F ( 190° C/Gas Mark 5) . Grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
6. Layer it up! Start with sauce, then pasta, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella. Repeat the layers. Get creative.
7. Bake for 25- 30 minutes , or until bubbly and golden brown.
8. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Patience, my friend!

Pro Tips: Secrets to Casserole Perfection

Want your Pasta bake with meat sauce to be the talk of the town? Don’t overcook the spaghetti. Al dente is the word.

Also, let your sauce simmer long enough for the flavours to meld. Think of it like a spa day for your sauce.

Too good to resist.

A common mistake is using watery ricotta. Drain it well! Otherwise, your casserole might be too runny. To make-ahead, assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.

And there you have it a Ricotta cheese casserole that’s guaranteed to impress! It is perfect for a family dinner ideas .

So, ditch the takeout and embrace the Italian American cuisine within. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes That Elevate Your Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Alright, let’s dive into some essential recipe notes. Because Baked Spaghetti Casserole Is as only as good as the little tweaks and touches you add! Honestly, the beauty of this Spaghetti Casserole lies in how easily you can make it your own.

Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro

Presentation matters, right? After baking, let that Pasta Bake with Meat Sauce rest for about ten minutes. This helps it hold its shape when you serve.

A simple garnish of fresh parsley or basil does wonders. Try serving individual portions with a side of garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad.

A glass of Chianti wouldn't hurt either!

Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh

Got leftovers? Lucky you! For refrigeration, cover the Spaghetti Casserole tightly with foil or transfer it to an airtight container.

It'll keep well for up to three days. Freezing is also an option. Cut the casserole into individual portions, wrap them well, and freeze for up to two months.

When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through.

Variations: Tailor it to Your Taste

Fancy a change? For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms and zucchini. Adds a lovely earthy flavour.

If you're watching your carbs, consider using zucchini noodles instead of regular Spaghetti Noodles . For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce or use spicy Italian sausage! This transforms your Comfort food recipe into something with a bit more heat.

Nutrition Basics: Fueling Your Body

Let's face it. This Easy Casserole Recipes is proper Italian American cuisine comfort food. A serving of this Ricotta Cheese Casserole packs a good punch of protein (around 30-35g) thanks to the ground beef and cheese.

It also provides a decent amount of carbs for energy. However, it's worth noting that the fat and sodium content can be on the higher side.

So, enjoy in moderation!

This Baked Spaghetti Recipe is perfect as Family dinner ideas . You know, the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table.

I really hope this guide and recipe will make your next Baked Spaghetti Casserole a smashing success. Happy cooking, love!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Baked Spaghetti Casserole ahead of time? Like, Mary Berry levels of prepared?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through. This is a lifesaver if you're expecting company or want a quick weeknight dinner.

What's the best way to store leftover Baked Spaghetti Casserole Is as to keep it from drying out?

To prevent your leftover spaghetti casserole from drying out, allow it to cool completely before storing. Then, transfer it to an airtight container or wrap it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. It will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.

I'm trying to be a bit healthier - any sneaky ways to lighten up this Baked Spaghetti Casserole?

You bet! Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef to cut down on fat. You can also substitute whole wheat spaghetti for a fiber boost, and use part skim ricotta and mozzarella.

Loading up on veggies in the sauce, like diced zucchini or mushrooms, is another great way to add nutrients without sacrificing flavor. Every little helps!

My kids are fussy eaters! Any tips for making this Baked Spaghetti Casserole more kid-friendly?

Ah, the age-old problem! Finely chop or even blend the vegetables in the sauce to hide them. Using fun pasta shapes can also make it more appealing. A touch of sweetness, like a pinch more sugar in the sauce, can often win them over too. And of course, never underestimate the power of extra cheese!

Can I freeze the Baked Spaghetti Casserole Is as?

Yes, you can definitely freeze it! For best results, assemble the casserole in a freezer safe dish. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap, then with foil, to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This casserole is a meal prep superhero!

What can I add to this Baked Spaghetti Casserole for a bit of a grown-up twist?

Fancy a bit of posh nosh? Try adding some sautéed mushrooms and a splash of dry red wine to the meat sauce. You could also incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a deeper flavour. A sprinkle of fresh basil or oregano after baking adds a lovely aromatic touch.

These additions elevate the dish from comfort food to something truly special.