Baked Spaghetti: A Comforting Delight for Any Occasion
Introduction
Craving the rich, layered flavors of lasagna but looking for a simpler option? This Baked Spaghetti recipe is the perfect solution, combining the comforting taste of spaghetti with a delightful blend of cheeses and savory ground beef, all in a hassle-free dish that’s perfect for families and gatherings alike. It’s an easy recipe that comes together quickly and freezes beautifully, making it an ideal choice for meal prepping or those busy weeknights. Served with Pillsbury breadsticks and a side of sautéed zucchini and squash, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 8
- Category: Spaghetti
- Keywords: Meat, European, Kid Friendly, < 60 Mins, Beginner Cook, Easy
- Rating: ★★★★★ (23 Reviews)
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 283.9 |
| Total Fat | 21.1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 79.4 mg |
| Sodium | 302.1 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 1.9 g |
| Fiber | 0.2 g |
| Sugars | 0.9 g |
| Protein | 20.9 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient Quantity | Ingredient Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Diced tomatoes with green pepper and onion |
| 1 | Ground beef |
| 1 | Onion (diced) |
| 1 | Angel hair pasta |
| 1 | Spaghetti |
| 1 | Mild cheddar cheese |
| 1 | Mozzarella cheese |
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Baked Spaghetti will cook evenly and perfectly.
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Prepare the Pasta: Take the angel hair pasta and break it into approximately 3-inch lengths. Cook it according to the package instructions, typically in boiling water, until it is al dente. Once cooked, be sure to rinse the pasta under cold water and drain it thoroughly to remove any excess starch.
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Sauté the Onion and Beef: While the pasta is cooking, dice the onion into small pieces. In a large skillet, brown the diced onion along with the ground beef over medium heat. Stir frequently until the beef is cooked through and no longer pink. Once browned, drain any excess grease to ensure your dish remains flavorful without being too oily.
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Create the Sauce Mixture: Add the spaghetti sauce and the can of diced tomatoes to the skillet with the cooked beef and onions. Stir the mixture together and allow it to simmer for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld together and the sauce thicken slightly.
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Combine Pasta and Cheese: Next, stir in the drained pasta into the beef and sauce mixture. Once well combined, add the mild cheddar cheese, mixing thoroughly until the cheese is completely melted. A pasta server works wonders here, making it easier to combine all the ingredients.
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Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease your chosen baking pan with olive oil-flavored cooking spray (like Pam). For ease of storage, you might consider dividing the mixture between two 8-inch square pans, lining one with aluminum foil to freeze for another day. Alternatively, you can pour the entire mixture into a greased 13×9-inch baking dish.
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Bake the Spaghetti: Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes. This initial baking step allows the flavors to develop and the dish to set.
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Add Mozzarella Cheese: After the first 15 minutes, take the dish out of the oven and sprinkle the top with mozzarella cheese. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted and bubbling to your liking.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the Baked Spaghetti from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve it warm and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and textures that make this dish a family favorite.
Conclusion
This Baked Spaghetti is not just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace on a plate, perfect for those days when you want something hearty yet easy to prepare. Its adaptability makes it an ideal candidate for freezing, allowing you to savor its deliciousness even on the busiest of nights. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a well-rounded meal that is sure to please both kids and adults alike. Enjoy making this delightful dish as a part of your regular meal rotation, and watch as it quickly becomes a beloved favorite!
