Easy Baked Spaghetti Recipe With Ricotta Cheese
Spaghetti is a classic pasta dish that is loved by many. It's easy to make, delicious, and can be served in many different ways. One way to enjoy spaghetti is to bake it with creamy ricotta cheese. This easy baked spaghetti recipe with ricotta cheese is a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
- Spread a layer of the tomato sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Add a layer of spaghetti, followed by a layer of the ricotta cheese mixture, and a layer of mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used up.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Variations:
There are many ways to customize this easy baked spaghetti recipe with ricotta cheese to suit your taste. Here are a few ideas:
- Use ground beef, turkey or sausage instead of onions and garlic.
- Add some chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini or mushrooms to the sauce.
- Substitute the ricotta cheese with cottage cheese or cream cheese.
- Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or hot sauce for some heat.
Conclusion:
This easy baked spaghetti recipe with ricotta cheese is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and creamy pasta dish that everyone will love. Feel free to experiment with different variations and make it your own!