Baked Spaghetti Casserole With Ricotta Cheese
Are you looking for a new pasta recipe that will satisfy your cravings and impress your taste buds? Look no further than this baked spaghetti casserole with ricotta cheese. This dish is easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Plus, it's a great way to use up leftover spaghetti!
Ingredients:
For this recipe, you will need:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 jar of your favorite pasta sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to make your baked spaghetti casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
- Add the garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Add the pasta sauce to the skillet and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, meat sauce, ricotta cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well to combine.
- Transfer the spaghetti mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Variations:
This baked spaghetti casserole is versatile and can be customized to your liking. Here are some variations to try:
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Swap out the ricotta cheese for cottage cheese or cream cheese.
- Add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the meat sauce.
- Top with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for added crunch.
- Use a different type of pasta, such as penne or rigatoni.
Conclusion:
Baked spaghetti casserole with ricotta cheese is a delicious and easy recipe that is sure to become a family favorite. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Plus, it's a great way to use up leftover spaghetti and customize to your liking. Give it a try and see for yourself!
