This Baked Spaghetti is a classic comfort food that will satisfy your hunger and warm you up. The rich tomato sauce, combined with savory cheese, creates a mouthwatering combination. The bubbly mozzarella on top adds a layer of deliciousness to every bite.
Perfect for a cozy night in, this dish brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for the family or making a dish to share at a gathering, this Baked Spaghetti is always a hit. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients, it’s the ultimate comfort meal.
Full Recipe:
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1 (16 oz) package uncooked spaghetti
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
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1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
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1/2 cup water
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1 tablespoon white sugar
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1 tablespoon dried basil leaves
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1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
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1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
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1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
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Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water, sugar, basil, fennel, Italian seasoning, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the tomato sauce, and stir well to coat the pasta evenly.
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Pour the spaghetti and sauce mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella.
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Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Why Baked Spaghetti is So Special
The magic of baked spaghetti lies in the way the ingredients come together in the oven. As the pasta bakes, it soaks up the flavorful sauce while the cheese melts into a gooey, golden crust. The dish has a comforting, homey feel that brings nostalgia to many who grew up enjoying this meal. The combination of tomato sauce, spices, and melted cheese creates a savory and rich flavor profile, while the pasta serves as a neutral base that binds all the flavors together. This dish is ideal for meal prep, feeding large groups, or simply satisfying a craving for something cheesy and delicious.
The Versatility of Baked Spaghetti
One of the reasons why baked spaghetti is such a popular choice is its versatility. While the basic recipe remains the same, there are countless ways to customize this dish to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For those looking for a bit of extra protein, you can easily add ground beef, sausage, or even chicken to the sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. You can also switch up the cheeses, using a combination of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan for different textures and flavors. For those with dietary restrictions, there are plenty of gluten-free pasta options available that allow you to enjoy this dish without compromising taste.
Baked Spaghetti: Perfect for Every Occasion
Baked spaghetti is an incredibly adaptable dish that can fit into various occasions. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner, preparing a meal for guests, or making a comforting dish for a family gathering, baked spaghetti is the perfect choice. The dish is filling, budget-friendly, and relatively easy to prepare, making it a go-to for busy families and meal preppers. It’s also a great option for potlucks or gatherings, as it can easily be made in large batches and is sure to please a crowd.
How to Make Baked Spaghetti Ahead of Time
One of the greatest advantages of baked spaghetti is that it can be made ahead of time. You can prepare the dish up to the point where it’s ready to be baked, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or for those times when you need a quick and easy dinner after a long day. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake it as directed, and you’ll have a hot, comforting meal in no time. Additionally, baked spaghetti can be frozen for longer storage, making it the perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeks.
Tips for Making the Best Baked Spaghetti
While this dish is simple to make, there are a few key tips that can elevate your baked spaghetti to the next level. First, be sure to cook the spaghetti al dente. Since the pasta will continue to cook in the oven, starting with perfectly cooked spaghetti ensures it won’t become too soft or mushy after baking. Another tip is to use a high-quality tomato sauce or marinara sauce to build a flavorful base. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can also add an extra punch of flavor to the sauce. For an even richer taste, consider adding a dash of red wine to the sauce as it simmers. Finally, don’t skimp on the cheese! A combination of mozzarella for meltiness and Parmesan for a salty bite creates the perfect cheesy topping.
Why Baked Spaghetti is a Comfort Food Classic
Comfort foods are those dishes that make us feel warm, content, and nostalgic, and baked spaghetti is a prime example. Whether it’s the childhood memories of sitting down to a plate of cheesy pasta or the sheer satisfaction of biting into the melted cheese and hearty sauce, baked spaghetti checks all the boxes of a comfort food classic. It’s a dish that brings people together, offering both nourishment and the simple joy of a meal shared with family and friends. There’s something about the combination of pasta and cheese that’s universally loved, and baked spaghetti takes that love to the next level by making it extra cozy and flavorful.
Healthier Alternatives for Baked Spaghetti
While traditional baked spaghetti is undoubtedly delicious, it can be heavy with its combination of pasta, cheese, and sauce. For those looking to make a healthier version, there are plenty of substitutions that can make the dish a bit lighter without sacrificing flavor. First, you can swap out regular pasta for whole wheat spaghetti or gluten-free pasta to increase the fiber content. You can also use part-skim mozzarella and reduce the amount of cheese used to cut back on fat and calories. To add more nutrients, try incorporating vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers into the sauce. If you want to add some protein, lean meats like ground turkey or chicken sausage are excellent options that provide a healthier alternative to traditional beef or pork sausage.
Baked Spaghetti Variations from Around the World
While baked spaghetti has its roots in Italian cuisine, variations of this dish can be found in many different cultures around the world. For example, in Greece, baked pasta dishes like “Pastitsio” combine pasta with a creamy béchamel sauce, ground beef, and spices. In the Philippines, a similar dish called “Spaghetti Filipino-style” uses a sweeter tomato sauce and often includes sliced hot dogs or ground pork. Even within Italy, you’ll find regional variations of baked pasta dishes, each with its own unique twist on the basic concept. The beauty of baked spaghetti is that it can easily adapt to different culinary traditions, making it a versatile and internationally loved dish.
Conclusion: A Dish for All Tastes and Occasions
Baked spaghetti is a dish that brings joy to every table. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or a holiday meal, its comforting flavors and simple ingredients make it a go-to favorite. The dish is easy to make, budget-friendly, and highly customizable, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs and preferences. With its rich tomato sauce, savory cheese, and satisfying pasta, baked spaghetti is a timeless comfort food that will always be a crowd-pleaser. Whether enjoyed in its traditional form or with your own unique twist, baked spaghetti will continue to be a dish loved by all.
