Baked spaghetti with meat sauce is a beloved comfort food that often finds its way to family tables, especially on busy weeknights or during gatherings. Loaded with flavors and textures, this dish not only pleases the palate but also warms the soul. There’s something nostalgic about it, reminding us of cozy dinners shared with loved ones, where the aroma of bubbling sauce and melted cheese fills the air. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it the perfect choice for anyone looking for a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Reasons to try it
Everything about baked spaghetti with meat sauce screams “family-friendly.” It not only combines the rich flavors of ground beef and savory sauce but also incorporates colorful vegetables that can quietly sneak extra nutrition into your meal. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners and also doubles as a great option for meal prep or potlucks. It’s budget-friendly, typically using pantry staples that you may already have on hand, which is such a relief when you’re trying to cut costs.
"This baked spaghetti was a hit at our family dinner! The flavors were incredible, and everyone asked for seconds." – Happy Home Cook
Preparing Baked Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
This recipe is straightforward and can be broken down into simple steps. First, you’ll cook your pasta while preparing the meat sauce in a skillet. Then, everything gets combined and baked to perfection. The result? A bubbling, cheesy casserole that’s bound to impress even the pickiest eaters.
What you’ll need
To make this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb spaghetti
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Feel free to swap the ground beef for turkey or a meat substitute for a lighter or vegetarian option.
