Baked spaghetti with meat sauce is one of those cozy dishes that can fill your kitchen with comforting aromas while also satisfying even the pickiest eaters at the dinner table. I remember the first time I tried this hearty recipe; it was a chilly evening, and as I layered the pasta with savory meat sauce and melted cheese, I felt like I was creating a meal that would bring everyone together. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish hits the mark with its simplicity and rich flavors.
Why you’ll love this dish
This baked spaghetti with meat sauce is a perfect blend of convenience and flavor. Fast to prepare and budget-friendly, it’s an ideal choice for weeknight dinners when you want to serve something filling but don’t have hours to cook. Kids love the cheesy, meaty goodness, making it a surefire hit for family meals. Plus, it’s the kind of dish you can easily make ahead, allowing for quick reheating and serving later on.
“This baked spaghetti was a total hit at our family dinner! Easy to make and the flavors were spot on. Everyone went for seconds!” — Happy Home Cook
Step-by-step overview
Making baked spaghetti with meat sauce is a straightforward process. You start by cooking the spaghetti until it’s al dente, while simultaneously browning the ground beef with veggies and garlic in a skillet. Once everything is combined with the rich sauce, it’s baked to perfection with a cheesy topping. Ready for a hearty meal in less than an hour? Let’s dive into the specifics!
What you’ll need
Here’s your ingredient list for baked spaghetti with meat sauce:
- 450 g spaghetti
- 500 g ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups marinara or tomato pasta sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Feel free to swap ground beef with turkey or even go for a plant-based option for a lighter twist!
