Baked Spaghetti With Meat Sauce Recipe
Baked spaghetti with meat sauce is a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. This recipe is easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a great option for busy weeknights. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide to making baked spaghetti with meat sauce that is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need:
- 1 pound of spaghetti
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) of tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons of dried basil
- 2 teaspoons of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make baked spaghetti with meat sauce:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it is al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it is browned, stirring occasionally.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until they are tender, stirring occasionally.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet, stirring until they are well combined.
- Add the dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the skillet, stirring until they are well combined.
- Let the meat sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine the cooked spaghetti and meat sauce in a large bowl and mix well.
- Transfer the spaghetti and meat sauce mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the spaghetti and meat sauce mixture.
- Bake the dish for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Variations
There are many variations of baked spaghetti with meat sauce that you can try:
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a healthier option.
- Top the baked spaghetti with fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, before serving for added freshness.
- Try using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, to give the dish a unique flavor.
- Add a layer of sliced pepperoni or cooked Italian sausage to the dish for a meatier option.
Conclusion
Baked spaghetti with meat sauce is a delicious and hearty meal that is perfect for any occasion. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can make a flavorful and satisfying dish that is sure to impress your guests. Don't be afraid to experiment with different variations to find the perfect combination of flavors for your taste buds. Enjoy!