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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes evoke the same level of warmth and nostalgia as a baked spaghetti casserole. This beloved dish has a unique ability to bring families together, making it a staple at gatherings, celebrations, and cozy weeknight dinners. The blend of hearty pasta, rich sauces, and creamy cheeses creates a satisfying meal that warms both the body and soul. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or simply looking for a comforting dish to enjoy with your loved ones, baked spaghetti casserole stands out as a classic choice.

Classic Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Indulge in the heartwarming flavor of a baked spaghetti casserole, a dish that brings families together around the table. With layers of tender spaghetti, savory meat sauce, fresh vegetables, and a blend of cheeses, this classic comfort food is perfect for any occasion. Easy to customize for any taste, it’s a nostalgic recipe that warms both body and soul. Discover how to create this satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite for gatherings and cozy dinners alike.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz spaghetti

1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 (28 oz) can of crushed tomatoes

2 cups marinara sauce

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for added heat)

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.

    Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot, bring a generous amount of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, stirring occasionally until al dente. Once cooked, drain the spaghetti and set it aside in a large bowl.

      Brown the Meat: While the spaghetti is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage, using a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Continue cooking until the meat is browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

        Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned meat. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

          Add Sauces and Seasonings: To the skillet, stir in the crushed tomatoes, marinara sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

            Combine Spaghetti and Sauce: Pour the meat sauce mixture over the reserved spaghetti in the large bowl. Toss gently until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.

              Layer the Casserole: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread half of the spaghetti and sauce mixture evenly across the bottom. Dollop half of the ricotta cheese over this layer, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti mixture, the rest of the ricotta, and top off with the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.

                Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.

                  Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes for easier slicing. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6-8

                      - Presentation Tips: For an eye-catching presentation, serve the casserole in the baking dish, garnished with a sprinkle of additional parsley and a few fresh basil leaves. Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.