Casserole loves you ❤️ ...
Spaghetti casserole
Spaghetti went to a party and came back baked.
🥕 Ingredients
📋 Complete List
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- 1 pound lean ground beef, preferably 85/15 blend for optimal flavor and moisture
- 1 pound spaghetti noodles, cooked al dente according to package directions
- 2 (24-ounce) jars high-quality marinara sauce, divided for layering
- 3 cups freshly shredded mozzarella cheese, divided for multiple layers
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese for enhanced flavor depth
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced for aromatic base
- 4 cloves garlic, minced or pressed for maximum flavor distribution
- 2 large eggs, beaten until smooth for binding
- 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese for extra creaminess
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning blend for authentic flavor
- 1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste for proper seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper for depth
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil for sautéing
📝 Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position the rack in the center for even heat distribution
Cook spaghetti in a large pot of salted water until just al dente, about 2 minutes less than package directions suggest
While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté diced onions until translucent
Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional minute until fragrant but not browned
Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until well-browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon
Season the meat mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine thoroughly
In a large bowl, combine beaten eggs, ricotta cheese, and 1 cup of the mozzarella cheese
Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the egg mixture, tossing well to coat all noodles evenly
Layer half the spaghetti mixture in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly
Top with half the meat mixture and half the remaining marinara sauce
Repeat layers with remaining spaghetti, meat, and sauce
Cover the top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese
Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes until cheese is melted and golden brown, and casserole is bubbling around edges
💡 Chef's Tips
Cook pasta just until al dente as it will continue cooking in the oven
Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to help it set properly
Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and flavor
Reserve some pasta cooking water to thin out sauce if needed
📊 Nutrition Facts
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking
Yes, wrap well and freeze for up to 3 months
Cook pasta 2 minutes less than package directions
Yes, any melting cheese works well in this recipe
Cheese should be golden and edges bubbling
Yes, sautéed vegetables work great in this dish
Heat covered in oven at 350°F until warm