Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Introduction:

Baked spaghetti casserole is a timeless comfort food that brings families together around the dinner table. Combining the classic flavors of spaghetti with the convenience of a casserole, this dish is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. In this article, we’ll explore what makes baked spaghetti casserole so special and provide you with a mouthwatering recipe to try at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb spaghetti
• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked meat. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
7. Spread half of the cooked spaghetti in an even layer on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
8. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the layer of spaghetti.
9. Spread the remaining spaghetti over the cream cheese layer.
10. Pour the meat sauce evenly over the top of the spaghetti.
11. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
12. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
13. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
14. Let the Baked Spaghetti Casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
15. Serve slices of the casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
16. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful Baked Spaghetti Casserole with your favorite garlic bread and a side salad for a delicious meal!

Serving Tips:

1. Serve the baked spaghetti casserole hot straight from the oven for the best flavor and texture.
2. Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
3. Accompany the casserole with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
4. Cut the casserole into squares or portions before serving for easier serving and presentation.

Storage Tips:

1. Store any leftover baked spaghetti casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
3. You can also freeze the baked spaghetti casserole for longer storage. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
4. When ready to eat, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator before reheating according to the instructions above.

FAQs:

1. Can I use different types of pasta for baked spaghetti casserole? Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can experiment with other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or even rotini. Just be mindful of cooking times as different shapes may require adjustments.
2. Can I make baked spaghetti casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can! Baked spaghetti casserole is a great make-ahead dish. Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator, let it sit at room temperature while the oven preheats, then bake as directed.
3. Can I make baked spaghetti casserole vegetarian? Absolutely! You can omit the ground beef or Italian sausage and instead add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce for a delicious vegetarian version. You can also use plant-based meat alternatives for a meatless option.
4. Can I freeze baked spaghetti casserole? Yes, baked spaghetti casserole freezes very well. Once baked, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
5. Can I customize the flavors of the sauce? Absolutely! Feel free to customize the sauce to your liking by adding herbs and spices such as oregano, basil, thyme, or red pepper flakes for some heat. You can also incorporate different types of cheese like cheddar, provolone, or fontina for added flavor complexity. Experiment and make it your own!

Conclusion:

Baked spaghetti casserole is a simple yet satisfying dish that is sure to become a family favorite. With its hearty flavors and easy preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want a cozy meal at home, this recipe is sure to please. Give it a try and enjoy the deliciousness of baked spaghetti casserole tonight!