Directions to follow
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper, cooking until they soften.
Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Stir in your choice of marinara or meat sauce and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce mixture, ensuring the pasta is well-coated.
Transfer the spaghetti into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is bubbly and lightly golden.
Serve hot! It pairs wonderfully with a green salad or garlic bread.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving baked spaghetti can be a fun experience! Plate it up with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. Consider pairing it with a crisp green salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette, or some warm, buttery garlic bread for a complete meal that elevates the dining experience.
For a festive touch, you may even want to serve it in individual ramekins for a unique presentation at your next gathering!
Keeping leftovers fresh
Storing your baked spaghetti is easy! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you prefer, you can portion it out into meal-prep containers for grab-and-go convenience.
For longer storage, baked spaghetti freezes beautifully. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container, and it can last up to 3 months. Reheat it in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of water to retain its moisture.
Helpful cooking tips
- Cook the spaghetti al dente: Since it will continue to cook in the oven, you want to avoid mushy pasta.
- Try adding vegetables: For added nutrition, consider tossing in some spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini during the browning step.
- Go easy on the seasoning: If you’re using a flavored sauce, adjust your salt and seasoning accordingly.
- Let it rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps it hold its shape when serving.
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative with this dish. You can experiment with different herbs—basil or oregano can add unique flavors. Want a bit of spice? A dash of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish. You might also consider a vegetarian version by using lentils or chickpeas as a meat substitute. For a gourmet feel, throw in some sautéed mushrooms or a blend of gourmet cheeses as a topping!
Your questions answered
1. How long does it take to prepare baked spaghetti with meat sauce?
- The preparation and cooking time is roughly 45 minutes!
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to package instructions.
3. What’s the best way to freeze baked spaghetti?
- Allow it to cool, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or use a freezer-safe container to avoid freezer burn.
Enjoy this easy, delicious, and family-friendly dish! You’ll find that baked spaghetti with meat sauce becomes a favorite in your home too.
