Cheesy Baked Spaghetti

Introduction:

Craving a comforting and indulgent meal that will satisfy the whole family? Look no further than Cheesy Baked Spaghetti! This crowd-pleasing dish takes traditional spaghetti to new heights by combining it with a luscious cheese sauce, baking it to golden perfection, and serving it up in hearty portions. In this SEO article, we’ll explore the irresistible appeal of Cheesy Baked Spaghetti and provide you with a mouthwatering recipe to try at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 16 ounces tomato sauce
• 2 cups water (reserved from cooking pasta)
• 1 tablespoon seasoned salt
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• ½ tablespoon garlic powder
• ½ tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
• 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 3 cups mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups Italian cheese blend
• 16 ounces spaghetti noodles
• Enough water to cover and boil spaghetti
• 1 teaspoon salt, for water to boil pasta

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large stockpot, bring water to a boil and add salt. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente. Reserve two cups of cooking liquid, then drain and rinse spaghetti.
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add onions and garlic and cook until soft.
3. Stir in tomato sauce, reserved pasta water, all seasonings, and sugar. Add Velveeta cheese and stir until melted.
4. Combine the cooked spaghetti with the sauce mixture in a greased baking dish. Mix in half of the mozzarella and Italian cheese blend.
5. Top with remaining cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and broil for 2-3 minutes to brown the cheese.
6. Serve hot garnished with fresh basil or additional Italian seasoning.
7. Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
8. Kcal: 526 kcal | Servings: 10 servings

Serving Tips:

1. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped basil or parsley over the baked spaghetti for a pop of color and added flavor. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a refreshing touch to the dish.
2. Pair with Garlic Bread or Salad: Serve Cheesy Baked Spaghetti alongside garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal. The garlic bread adds extra crunch and flavor, while the salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
3. Individual Portioning: If serving a crowd, consider portioning the baked spaghetti into individual servings using a large spoon or spatula. This makes it easier for guests to serve themselves and ensures everyone gets an equal share of the cheesy goodness.
4. Serve with Extra Cheese: For the cheese lovers in your group, offer additional grated Parmesan cheese or shredded mozzarella on the side. This allows guests to customize their portions and add extra cheesy goodness to their liking.
5. Use Oven-to-Table Cookware: If you have oven-to-table cookware, such as ceramic baking dishes or cast iron skillets, consider using them for baking and serving Cheesy Baked Spaghetti. These versatile dishes retain heat well and add a rustic charm to the presentation.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration: If you have leftover Cheesy Baked Spaghetti, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.
2. Freezing Instructions: Cheesy Baked Spaghetti can also be frozen for longer-term storage. Portion the cooled spaghetti into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, removing any excess air before sealing. Frozen spaghetti can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
3. Thawing and Reheating: When ready to use frozen Cheesy Baked Spaghetti, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat the spaghetti gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of water or tomato sauce to prevent it from drying out.
4. Individual Freezing: For added convenience, freeze Cheesy Baked Spaghetti in individual portions. This allows you to thaw and reheat only the amount you need, minimizing waste and ensuring fresh-tasting leftovers every time.
5. Labeling: To keep track of storage dates and contents, label the containers or bags of Cheesy Baked Spaghetti with the date of preparation. This helps you identify leftovers easily and ensures they are consumed within the recommended storage timeframe.

FAQs:

1. Can I Use Different Types of Pasta for Baked Spaghetti? While spaghetti is the traditional choice for this recipe, you can certainly experiment with different pasta shapes. Penne, rigatoni, or rotini are excellent alternatives that hold the cheese sauce well and offer a fun twist on the classic dish.
2. Can I Make Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Ahead of Time? Yes, Cheesy Baked Spaghetti is a great make-ahead dish. You can assemble the pasta and cheese sauce in the baking dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply pop it in the oven when ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
3. What Variations Can I Make to the Cheese Sauce? While the recipe calls for a classic cheese sauce made with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, feel free to get creative with the cheese blend. Cheddar, provolone, or a combination of your favorite cheeses can be used to customize the flavor of the sauce to your liking.
4. Can I Add Meat or Vegetables to Cheesy Baked Spaghetti? Absolutely! Adding cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken to the sauce adds protein and flavor to the dish. You can also incorporate sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and texture.
5. How Do I Prevent the Pasta from Drying Out When Reheating? To prevent the pasta from drying out when reheating leftovers, add a splash of water or tomato sauce to the dish before reheating. Cover the baking dish with foil to trap moisture and heat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Stirring occasionally c