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Easy Baked Spaghetti

Easy Baked Spaghetti with Cheesy Goodness for Busy Nights

Enjoy Easy Baked Spaghetti, a comforting classic with rich marinara, ground beef, and gooey cheese, perfect for busy nights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Spaghetti Any pasta shape can be used.
For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 lb Lean Ground Beef Can substitute with ground turkey.
  • 1 Onion (chopped) Shallots can be a great alternative.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Pre-minced garlic can save time.
  • 24 oz Marinara Sauce Jarred options work well.
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano or Italian Seasoning Fresh herbs add vibrant flavor.
  • 1 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Omit for a milder meal.
  • Salt & Pepper Adjust to personal taste.
For the Cheesy Topping
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella & Cheddar Consider grating your own for richer flavors.
  • 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano can be a tasty substitute.
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Fresh Parsley Optional garnish for freshness.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • skillet
  • 9x13 baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Position the oven rack in the top third.
  2. Bring salted water to a boil, then cook spaghetti for 2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and transfer to a greased 9x13 baking dish.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil and brown the ground beef with the chopped onion for about 10 minutes.
  4. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute. Pour in the marinara sauce and season with salt and pepper. Heat through.
  5. Combine the beef and marinara with the cooked spaghetti, tossing gently to coat evenly.
  6. Sprinkle mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan cheeses over the top. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, broiling for a few minutes if desired.
  7. Let the dish cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Watch spaghetti closely to avoid overcooking. Use a mix of cheeses for best results. Layer cheese toppings evenly for ideal crust.

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