Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti: The Ultimate Comfort Food Casserole
Growing up, family dinners were a sacred time in our household. One dish that always brought everyone together was my mom’s baked spaghetti. It was a staple at every gathering, and the aroma wafting through the house was enough to make anyone’s mouth water. This Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti recipe is a tribute to those cherished moments, combining nostalgia with a modern twist that will make your taste buds sing.
What Makes It Special
This baked spaghetti is not just another pasta dish; it’s a comforting casserole that brings warmth and joy to any table. Here’s why it stands out:
- Layered Flavors: The combination of savory meats, rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheese creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready, making it a lifesaver for entertaining.
Gather Your Ingredients
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 8
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Let’s Get Cooking
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat and stir in the marinara sauce. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
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In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
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In a large baking dish, layer half of the spaghetti, followed by half of the meat sauce, and half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat the layers.
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Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
My Pro Tips
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For an extra kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
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Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
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Top with fresh basil or parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
What to Serve With It
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Steamed broccoli
- A glass of red wine
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze baked spaghetti?
A: Yes! You can freeze it before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
The Heart of the Dish
This Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of family, love, and the joy of sharing food. Each bite is a reminder of those cozy evenings spent around the dinner table, laughing and enjoying each other’s company. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your home as it has to mine.
Your Turn
Now it’s your turn to try this delicious baked spaghetti! I encourage you to make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients or spices. Don’t forget to share your experience and any tweaks you made. Happy cooking!
Million Dollar Baked Spaghetti: The Ultimate Comfort Food Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Steamed broccoli
- A glass of red wine
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat and stir in the marinara sauce. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- In a large baking dish, layer half of the spaghetti, followed by half of the meat sauce, and half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat the layers.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
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