Classic Baked Spaghetti
If you’re looking for a comforting, satisfying dish that can please the whole family, Classic Baked Spaghetti is a fantastic option. This recipe combines hearty spaghetti noodles with a rich marinara sauce and plenty of cheese for a dish that’s perfect for any gathering. Plus, it’s a great option for meal prep, making it easy to have healthy, homemade meals ready for the week. This baked spaghetti is not just delicious; it’s a great high protein meal, too! You may also find Baked Beans From Scratch useful.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS Classic Baked Spaghetti
Classic Baked Spaghetti is a crowd-pleaser. It offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures, all while being a flexible dish that you can customize. You can easily modify the recipe to suit various dietary needs, making it a wonderful choice for everyone at the table. Moreover, it’s loaded with fiber, protein, and flavor, making it a great option for those pursuing a healthy lifestyle. You may also find Baked Chicken Bacon Ranch Tacos useful.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Equipment 1: Large Pot
A large pot is essential for boiling the spaghetti until it’s perfectly al dente. This is the foundation of your baked spaghetti, so make sure it’s big enough to hold all the ingredients.
Equipment 2: Colander
A colander is used for draining the spaghetti after cooking. It’s crucial to ensure that your noodles don’t become overly soggy and maintain the right texture for baking.
Equipment 3: Baking Dish
A baking dish is necessary for assembling and baking the spaghetti. A 9×13-inch dish works well, providing ample space for all the ingredients to meld together beautifully in the oven.
INGREDIENTS
Ingredient 1: Spaghetti Noodles
16 ounces of spaghetti noodles serve as the base of your dish, providing the perfect texture for layering in the baked spaghetti.
Ingredient 2: Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
3 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese melts beautifully and creates that desirable gooey texture that everyone loves in a baked pasta dish.
Ingredient 3: Grated Parmesan Cheese
3/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese adds a nutty flavor and enhances creaminess, making each bite that much more enjoyable.
Ingredient 4: Eggs
2 large eggs help bind the noodles and add richness to the texture, providing a stable base for your baked spaghetti.
Ingredient 5: Melted Unsalted Butter
5 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter contribute richness and moisture to the noodles, ensuring a delightful mouthfeel.
Ingredient 6: Italian Sausage
1 pound of Italian sausage adds flavor and richness that pairs well with the marinara sauce, elevating the dish’s overall taste.
Ingredient 7: Marinara Sauce
36 ounces of marinara sauce are a quick and easy way to add a rich tomato flavor to the dish. Opt for a brand that has no added sugars for a healthier choice.
Ingredient 8: Tomato Paste
1/4 cup of tomato paste thickens the sauce and deepens the tomato taste, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
Ingredient 9: Italian Seasoning
2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning blends various herbs to enhance the dish’s flavor profile, making it aromatic and inviting.
Ingredient 10: Chopped Onion
1 medium chopped onion brings sweetness and depth to the sauce, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes.
Ingredient 11: Minced Garlic
1 tablespoon of minced garlic enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic qualities, adding an extra layer of taste.
Ingredient 12: Salt
1/2 teaspoon of salt balances flavors in the sauce and pasta, making sure everything comes together harmoniously.
Ingredient 13: Ground Black Pepper
1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper provides a hint of spice to the dish, elevating the overall flavor without overpowering it.
Ingredient 14: Chopped Fresh Basil
1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil adds a fresh, vibrant finish to the dish, infusing it with a moment of brightness.
HOW TO MAKE Classic Baked Spaghetti
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the 16 ounces of spaghetti noodles and cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain the spaghetti in a colander and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the 1 pound of Italian sausage until browned. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Once browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Step 3: Add Marinara and Seasonings
Stir in the 36 ounces of marinara sauce, 1/4 cup of tomato paste, 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5-10 minutes.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained spaghetti, the sauce mixture, 3 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, 3/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese, and the 2 large eggs. Mix everything together thoroughly to ensure the spaghetti is evenly coated.
Step 5: Assemble in Baking Dish
Pour the combined mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top. This will create a delicious cheesy crust when baked.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the spaghetti for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes. Top with 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil before serving. This Classic Baked Spaghetti will be the star of any meal!
TIPS AND TRICKS
For a healthier version, consider using whole wheat spaghetti or a plant-based pasta alternative. If you’re looking for a heart-healthy option, lean turkey sausage can be used instead of Italian sausage. This recipe is also great for meal prep; you can store portions in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. When storing, make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
If you’re in the mood for a delicious side, try pairing your baked spaghetti with baked apples for a sweet and satisfying dessert that appeals to both kids and adults.
Classic Baked Spaghetti FAQ
Q1: Can I make Classic Baked Spaghetti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance. Assemble it without baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, just bake as directed.
Q2: Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Classic Baked Spaghetti is perfect for meal prep. You can store individual portions in containers for quick and easy meals throughout the week.
Q3: Can I make a gluten-free version?
Yes! You can use gluten-free spaghetti to make this dish. Just ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Q4: How do I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the baked spaghetti cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.
CONCLUSION
Classic Baked Spaghetti is a delicious, hearty dish that’s not only satisfying but also versatile enough to suit many dietary needs. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s a great addition to your recipe rotation. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences with this dish or any variations you’ve tried, and enjoy the delightful taste of this classic comfort food!
Classic Baked Spaghetti
Ingredients
Method
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the spaghetti noodles and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and ground black pepper. Simmer for about 5-10 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained spaghetti, sauce mixture, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, and eggs. Mix until evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 25-30 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it rest for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.
