Baked Spaghetti Recipe

I’ve been making baked spaghetti for years, and it’s become my go-to dish for potlucks and family gatherings. What makes this recipe special isn’t just the combination of classic Italian flavors – it’s how the pasta transforms into something entirely different when baked. While regular spaghetti is wonderful, this version takes comfort food to new heights with its layers of cheese, meat sauce, and perfectly textured noodles. Let me show you my tried-and-true method.

Recipe

Transform your favorite pasta dinner into something truly extraordinary with this crowd-pleasing baked spaghetti that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. Think of it as the perfect marriage between classic spaghetti and lasagna – where al dente pasta meets rich meat sauce and a gloriously golden, bubbly cheese topping.

I’ve been making this dish for years, and it never fails to draw people back for seconds (or thirds!). What makes this version special is the way the pasta soaks up all those amazing Italian flavors while baking, creating layers of comfort food magic that simply can’t be achieved with regular spaghetti.

The crispy, cheesy top gives way to a perfectly tender middle, and every forkful delivers that satisfying combination of sauce-laden pasta and melted cheese that we all crave.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or looking for a make-ahead dinner that’s both impressive and practical, this baked spaghetti hits all the right notes – and trust me, it’s even better the next day.

Ingredients

This comforting baked spaghetti transforms everyday pasta into a luxurious, cheesy casserole that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. The secret lies in layering quality ingredients and using a blend of cheeses for that perfect melt. While some ingredients are flexible, don’t skimp on the fresh garlic or Parmesan – they’re essential for that authentic Italian flavor.

• 1 pound spaghetti noodles
• 2 pounds lean ground beef (or Italian sausage for extra flavor)
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 2 (24 oz) jars marinara sauce (or homemade sauce)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 5 tablespoons butter, melted
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Pro tip: For an extra layer of flavor, use a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage. Can’t find ricotta? Cottage cheese makes a great substitute when blended smooth. The eggs help bind everything together, so don’t skip them!

How to Make the Best Cheesy Pasta Casserole Favorite

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. The preheating time allows you to complete the initial prep steps while guaranteeing your oven reaches the perfect temperature for even baking.
• Cook 16 ounces of spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente, about 2 minutes less than package directions. Slightly undercooking the pasta prevents it from becoming mushy during the baking process, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Brown 1 pound of ground beef with diced onions and garlic in a large skillet over medium heat. Break up any large chunks while cooking to secure even distribution throughout the casserole.

Drain excess fat once the meat is fully cooked.

• Add marinara sauce to the meat mixture and simmer for 5 minutes. This brief cooking time allows the flavors to meld while the sauce slightly reduces and thickens.
• Mix the cooked spaghetti with 2 beaten eggs and 1 cup of Parmesan cheese in a large bowl. The eggs help bind the pasta together, creating a sturdy base layer that won’t fall apart when served.
• Layer half the spaghetti mixture in the prepared baking dish, followed by a layer of meat sauce and shredded mozzarella. Creating distinct layers confirms every bite has the perfect combination of pasta, sauce, and cheese.
• Repeat the layering process with remaining ingredients, finishing with a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan on top. The final cheese layer will create a golden, bubbly crust while sealing in moisture.
• Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is golden brown and bubbly. The initial covered bake prevents the top from burning while making certain the casserole heats through.
• Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the layers to set and makes cutting and serving easier while preventing the cheese from becoming too runny.

Chef Tips



Expert cooking techniques can elevate your baked spaghetti from good to exceptional. I recommend using proper knife skills when chopping herbs and garlic – it guarantees even distribution of flavors throughout the dish.

When serving, I’ll share my favorite plating tips: let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before cutting, and garnish with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil.

Nutrition



This hearty pasta casserole makes a filling family meal. One serving provides a good balance of carbohydrates and protein.

Per serving (1 cup):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	367
Total Fat	14g
Saturated Fat	6g
Cholesterol	55mg
Sodium	690mg
Total Carbohydrates	43g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Protein	19g
Iron	3mg
Calcium	180mg
Potassium	450mg
Vitamin A	520IU
Vitamin C	8mg

What You’ll Love About This Recipe



This comforting pasta casserole combines the best of classic spaghetti with the convenience of a make-ahead dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Your family will request this crowd-pleasing favorite again and again.

Easy to Customize – Switch up the protein, veggies, or cheese to match your family’s preferences and what you have on hand.

Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and simply pop it in the oven when ready to serve.

Perfect for Gatherings – This hearty casserole feeds a crowd and travels well for potlucks, family dinners, or meal trains.

Recipe Card

This comforting casserole combines tender spaghetti noodles with a rich meat sauce, layered with creamy ricotta and melted cheese, then baked until golden and bubbly.

Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prep.

Ingredients:

• 16 oz spaghetti
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 2 eggs
• 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 5 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 cups cottage cheese or ricotta
• 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook spaghetti according to package directions
2. Brown ground beef and onion; drain fat
3. Add marinara sauce to beef mixture
4. Combine eggs, parmesan and melted butter
5. Toss cooked spaghetti with egg mixture
6. Layer in 9×13 pan: half the spaghetti, cottage cheese, meat sauce, mozzarella
7. Repeat layers
8. Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes until bubbly

Notes:

Can be assembled ahead and refrigerated.

Let stand 30 minutes before baking if chilled.

Equipment:

• 9×13 baking dish
• Large pot
• Skillet
• Mixing bowls

Time:

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Cuisine: Italian-American

Servings: 8-10 portions