This easy, cheesy Spaghetti Bake is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. With tender spaghetti enveloped in a rich, flavorful meat sauce and topped with bubbly, golden cheese, it’s no surprise this recipe is an instant hit. In fact, it’s so good that when I first made it, my sister-in-law begged for the recipe after just one bite! The best part? It’s as simple to make as it is delicious—proving that sometimes, simplicity truly is the key to success.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing a dish for potlucks and gatherings, this Spaghetti Bake is guaranteed to impress. Read on for the full recipe, helpful tips, and serving suggestions to make this dish perfect every single time.
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
- 1 pound ground beef – Adds hearty, savory flavor to the sauce.
- 1 onion, chopped – Provides a sweet and aromatic base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the sauce with a rich, garlicky depth.
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes – Creates a robust, chunky tomato base.
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce – Adds a smooth consistency to balance the crushed tomatoes.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Enhances the sauce with a classic Italian herb flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil – Complements the oregano and adds a fragrant, sweet note.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Brings out all the flavors in the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Adds subtle warmth to balance the richness.
For the Pasta:
- 1 pound spaghetti – The perfect pasta to soak up the sauce while holding its shape.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully for a gooey, cheesy layer.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, salty finish to the bake.
Instructions
1. Make the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onions are soft.
- Drain any excess grease to keep the sauce light and not overly oily.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
2. Cook the Pasta:
- While the sauce simmers, cook the spaghetti in a large pot of boiling salted water, following the package directions.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside. Do not overcook the spaghetti—it should be slightly al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.
3. Assemble the Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, the prepared meat sauce, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Transfer the spaghetti mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the top with the Parmesan cheese.
4. Bake the Spaghetti:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden brown hue on top.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the bake cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set slightly, making it easier to scoop.
- Serve warm and enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness.
Why This Spaghetti Bake is a Favorite
- Simple to Prepare: With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of any skill level.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to your family’s tastes by adding vegetables, using a different meat, or switching up the cheeses.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the cheesy, comforting flavors of this baked spaghetti.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble the dish ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready for a quick and delicious meal.
Pro Tips for Perfect Spaghetti Bake
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercook the spaghetti, as it will finish cooking in the oven. This prevents mushy pasta.
- Enhance the Flavor: Add a splash of red wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a deeper flavor with a bit of kick.
- Add Veggies: Sneak in extra nutrition by adding bell peppers, spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the sauce.
- Cheese Variations: Try adding provolone, ricotta, or cheddar cheese for a unique twist. Layering ricotta cheese between the pasta and sauce creates a creamier texture.
- Double the Recipe: This dish freezes beautifully! Make a double batch and freeze one for a busy weeknight.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Spaghetti Bake with classic sides to round out your meal:
- A fresh Caesar salad or a green garden salad tossed with Italian dressing.
- Warm garlic bread or homemade breadsticks to soak up the extra sauce.
- Steamed or roasted vegetables, like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans.
For a cozy, restaurant-style meal, finish with a simple dessert like tiramisu or a scoop of vanilla gelato.
Final Thoughts
This Spaghetti Bake is the ultimate comfort food—simple, hearty, and loaded with cheesy, saucy goodness. Whether you’re serving it to your family or guests, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe!).
With its easy-to-follow steps, flexible ingredients, and make-ahead options, this dish is perfect for even the busiest of days. So go ahead, try this recipe, and share the love of homemade Spaghetti Bake. After all, the best recipes are the ones we share!
If you loved this recipe, be sure to save it and share it with your friends and family—and don’t forget to check back for more delicious, foolproof recipes to make your kitchen the heart of the home.