Description

This Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting and cheesy dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With layers of seasoned pasta, savory ground meat, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s an all-in-one meal that’s easy to prepare and bake. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a make-ahead meal, this hearty casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) spaghetti

1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground turkey

1 small onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup ricotta cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg, beaten

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook meat and vegetables: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat. Add onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Prepare sauce: Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes.
Make cheese mixture: In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Stir to combine.
Layer casserole: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Layer half of the cooked spaghetti on top, followed by half of the ricotta mixture and half of the remaining meat sauce. Repeat with the remaining spaghetti, ricotta mixture, and meat sauce.
Top with cheese: Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Cool and garnish: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Storage: Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooled casserole for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 45-60 minutes from frozen.
Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until hot.

Prep Time: 20min
Cook Time: 30min
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian-American