Description

This Baked Spaghetti recipe is a comforting and hearty family favorite featuring tender spaghetti combined with seasoned ground beef, marinara sauce, and creamy ricotta cheese, all topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Baked to golden perfection and garnished with fresh basil, it offers a satisfyingly cheesy and flavorful meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Spaghetti and Meat Sauce

2 Tbsp. salted butter, plus more for greasing
1 tsp. kosher salt, plus more to taste
1 lb. spaghetti
1 lb. ground beef
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
1/2 tsp. onion powder
1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes
1 (32-ounce) jar marinara sauce

Cheeses and Garnish

1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh basil, torn

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 400˚F (200˚C). Grease a 9-by-13-inch or other 3-quart baking dish with butter. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the spaghetti, and cook according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Meat: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, 1 teaspoon salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 7 minutes.
Combine Ingredients: Stir the marinara sauce into the beef and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 3 minutes. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the cooked spaghetti and ricotta cheese until well combined.
Bake: Transfer the spaghetti mixture to the prepared baking dish. Scatter the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top. Bake until the cheese is browned and bubbling, about 30 minutes.
Garnish and Serve: Top with torn basil before serving to add a fresh herbaceous note.

Notes

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
For a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave.
Make sure to cook the spaghetti just until al dente to avoid overcooking during baking.