Baked spaghetti with meat sauce is a comforting dish that evokes the warmth of home-cooked meals. It’s one of those recipes that shines on busy weeknights yet can impress just as easily when entertaining guests. The layers of al dente spaghetti, hearty meat sauce, and gooey cheese create a delightful symphony of flavors and textures that can make anyone feel at ease. Plus, whose heart doesn’t skip a beat at the mere thought of an oven-baked pasta dish bubbling away, golden and fragrant?
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to adore baked spaghetti with meat sauce. For starters, it’s incredibly family-friendly—a dish that kids absolutely love. It’s easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners less stressful while still delivering on flavor. The ingredients are budget-friendly, and there’s a good chance you already have them in your kitchen! This dish is perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply shared moments with family over a cozy meal.
"This baked spaghetti became a household favorite! It’s easy, delicious, and perfect for leftovers!" — Happy Home Cook
Preparing Baked Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
Creating baked spaghetti with meat sauce is a straightforward process that requires some basic cooking skills but delivers impressive results. You’ll start by browning the ground beef with onions and bell peppers for a flavorful base. Once the sauce is simmering, you’ll combine it with the cooked spaghetti and layer it with cheese before finishing it off in the oven, where it transforms into a bubbly, golden dish.
If you enjoy cooking with family, having everyone involved in the assembly can make this meal even more special!
Gather these items
To create this delicious baked spaghetti, here’s what you’ll need:
- 12 oz spaghetti, cooked al dente
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups marinara or meat sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning
Feel free to customize it! You can swap the ground beef for turkey or a meat substitute and switch up the cheese according to your taste.
