Classic Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Casserole for Family Dinners

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready to bring a timeless comfort dish to your family table tonight? There’s something deeply heartwarming about baked pasta straight from the oven—golden, bubbling, and filled with rich, savory aroma. This Classic Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Casserole for Family Dinners is one of those beloved recipes that feels like home.

In many households, baked spaghetti is more than just a meal—it’s a tradition. It’s the dish that appears at Sunday dinners, potlucks, and gatherings where everyone gathers around the table with anticipation. Tender spaghetti noodles are layered with hearty meat sauce, creamy cheese, and baked until perfectly melted and lightly golden on top. Each forkful delivers comfort, warmth, and satisfying flavor.

The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity. With pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, you can create a meal that feeds a crowd and leaves everyone asking for seconds. It’s practical, filling, and wonderfully nostalgic. Let’s roll up our sleeves and prepare this classic favorite together!

Classic Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Casserole for Family Dinners Introduction

This Classic Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Casserole for Family Dinners combines traditional Italian-inspired flavors with the comforting appeal of a baked dish. Perfectly cooked spaghetti is tossed with a savory ground beef and tomato sauce, then layered with creamy ricotta and generous amounts of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

As the casserole bakes, the flavors blend beautifully. The cheese melts into a bubbly topping, the sauce thickens slightly, and the pasta absorbs all that rich goodness. The result is a hearty, satisfying meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, or anytime you crave a warm, homemade dinner.

This recipe keeps things simple while delivering bold, comforting flavors. Whether you’re cooking for your immediate family or hosting guests, this baked spaghetti casserole is sure to become a treasured favorite.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 ounces (340 g) spaghetti
• Water for boiling
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 pound (450 g) ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Cheese Layer:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Spaghetti
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside.
2. Prepare the Meat Sauce
   In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in marinara sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
3. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
   In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese and egg. Mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the Casserole
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Add half of the cooked spaghetti, followed by half of the remaining meat sauce. Dollop half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta and sprinkle with 1 cup mozzarella and half of the Parmesan. Repeat layers with remaining spaghetti, sauce, ricotta, and cheeses. Finish with the final cup of mozzarella on top.
5. Bake
   Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and lightly golden.
6. Rest and Serve
   Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

• Substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage for a variation in flavor.
• Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
• For a creamier texture, mix a few tablespoons of sour cream into the ricotta layer.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
• This casserole freezes well before or after baking for up to 2 months.

Nutritional Information

(Approximate values per serving)

⏰ Prep Time: 20 minutes | 🔥 Baking Time: 40 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 1 hour
⚡ Calories per serving: 560 kcal | 🍽️ Servings: 6

• Protein: 32 g
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Fat: 26 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg
• Sodium: 780 mg
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 7 g

This Classic Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Casserole for Family Dinners offers a hearty balance of protein, pasta, and melted cheese—perfectly satisfying when paired with a crisp green salad or warm garlic bread.

Few dishes bring people together quite like baked spaghetti. The golden cheese, rich tomato sauce, and tender pasta create a meal that feels both comforting and celebratory. Gather your loved ones, serve generous portions, and savor every bite of this timeless family favorite.

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Bon appétit and happy cooking!