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Easy Baked Spaghetti

Comforting Easy Baked Spaghetti Your New Family Favorite

This Easy Baked Spaghetti is a hearty, family-friendly dish that's budget-friendly and easy to prepare.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Uncooked Spaghetti Whole wheat or gluten-free can be used as a substitute.
For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 lb Lean Ground Beef Ground turkey or chicken is a great alternative.
  • 1 cup Chopped Onion Onion powder can be used if short on fresh.
  • 3 cloves Minced Garlic Fresh is best, garlic powder will work in a pinch.
  • 1 tbsp Dried Oregano or Italian Seasoning Fresh herbs can brighten the dish.
  • 1 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Optional for heat.
  • 24 oz Marinara Sauce Opt for high-quality store-bought or homemade.
  • to taste Salt & Pepper Adjust according to preference.
For the Cheesy Topping
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Mixing with other cheeses is optional.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Consider using Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
  • 1 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Pre-grated works well in a hurry.
For the Finish
  • 2 tbsp Chopped Fresh Parsley Optional, for garnish.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • casserole dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy Baked Spaghetti
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and adjust the oven rack to the top third position.
  2. Cook the uncooked spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water for 2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and transfer to a casserole dish.
  3. In a skillet, cook the lean ground beef, chopped onion, dried oregano, and optional red pepper flakes over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes.
  4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add marinara sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper, and heat through for about 5 minutes.
  5. Pour the meat mixture over the spaghetti and gently mix until the pasta is coated. Smooth into an even layer.
  6. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan cheese over the top.
  7. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, then switch to broiling for a few minutes for a golden top.
  8. Remove from oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated cheeses, and keep an eye during broiling to prevent burning.

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