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Easy Baked Spaghetti Casserole

This Easy Baked Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, a crowd-pleasing meal that's simple to make and perfect for cozy family dinners or feeding a crowd.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Casserole, Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces spaghetti cook until just shy of al dente
  • 1 pound ground beef 85% or 90% lean recommended
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes 28 ounce
  • 1 can tomato sauce 15 ounce
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped, for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Large Pot
  • 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • Tongs or Forks

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Step 2: Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente (it should still have a little bite). Drain well and set aside.
  3. Step 3: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic until the beef is browned and onion is soft (5-7 minutes). Drain off any excess grease.
  4. Step 4: Stir crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper into the skillet with the meat. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow flavors to meld.
  5. Step 5: In a large bowl, gently add the cooked and drained spaghetti. Pour the meat sauce over the top and use tongs or forks to gently toss until the spaghetti is evenly coated.
  6. Step 6: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Scoop about half of the spaghetti mixture into the bottom of the dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over this layer.
  7. Step 7: Add the remaining spaghetti mixture on top of the mozzarella layer and spread it out. Top with the rest of the mozzarella cheese and all of the grated Parmesan cheese.
  8. Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
  9. Step 9: Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before cutting and serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

This casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator; let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before baking and add 5-10 minutes to the baking time. Ensure pasta is cooked al dente and drained well to prevent a dry or mushy casserole. Drain excess grease after browning the meat. Taste and adjust sauce seasoning before combining with pasta. Let the casserole rest after baking to help it hold its shape. Store leftovers in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for 2-3 months. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover and reheat larger amounts in a 325°F (160°C) oven, adding a splash of water or sauce if needed.