Baked spaghetti

Here’s a hearty and comforting Baked Spaghetti recipe—crispy on top, cheesy and saucy inside. It’s a family favorite that’s easy to prep ahead.

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🍝 Baked Spaghetti Casserole

🛒 Ingredients (serves 6–8):

• 12 oz spaghetti, cooked al dente

• 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or pasta sauce

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 egg

• 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

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🔪 Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13″ baking dish.

2. Cook spaghetti until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Make meat sauce:
   In a skillet, brown ground beef with onion. Add garlic and cook another minute. Drain fat. Stir in pasta sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–10 minutes.

4. Mix ricotta base:
   In a bowl, whisk egg with ricotta/cottage cheese and ½ cup of mozzarella.

5. Assemble layers:

   • Spread half the meat sauce in the baking dish.

   • Toss spaghetti with the ricotta mixture and layer it over the sauce.

   • Top with remaining meat sauce, then sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.

6. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.

7. Cool 5–10 minutes, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve!

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✅ Tips:

• Make it ahead and refrigerate—just add 10 minutes to baking time.

• Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra veggies.

• Use gluten-free spaghetti or plant-based meat for a dietary twist.

Would you like a vegetarian version or a baked spaghetti pie with egg and cheese crust?