Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Casserole Easy Family Meal

Looking for an easy family meal that everyone will love? Look no further! This Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Casserole is your answer. With simple ingredients like pasta, ground meat, and three types of cheese, it’s a comforting dish that’s packed with flavor. Plus, it’s perfect for busy nights. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delicious casserole that will make your family ask for seconds!

Ingredients

When making Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Casserole, you need fresh and tasty ingredients. Here’s what to gather:

– 8 oz. spaghetti

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 medium onion, diced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 pound ground turkey or beef

– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes

– 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon dried basil

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

– 1 cup ricotta cheese

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Each ingredient plays a key role. The spaghetti forms the base, while the meat adds protein. The diced onion and garlic give great flavor. Crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce create a rich sauce. Mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese make it creamy and cheesy.

For the seasonings, oregano and basil add that Italian touch. Don’t forget the olive oil; it helps cook the onion and garlic perfectly. This mix of ingredients makes a delightful meal your family will love.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheating the Oven

First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step warms the oven. A hot oven helps the casserole bake evenly.

Cooking the Spaghetti

Next, boil water in a large pot. Add 8 oz. of spaghetti and cook it until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, drain the spaghetti and set it aside.

Preparing the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion and sauté it for 3-4 minutes. The onion should soften and smell nice. Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves for another minute. Then, add 1 pound of ground turkey or beef. Cook it for 5-7 minutes until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Pour in 1 can of crushed tomatoes and 1 can of tomato sauce. Season with 1 teaspoon each of oregano and basil, plus salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes.

Combining the Casserole Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, mix the cooked spaghetti, meat sauce, and 1 cup of ricotta cheese. Stir well to coat the spaghetti with the sauce. Transfer half of this mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Add the rest of the spaghetti mixture, then top with the remaining mozzarella and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.

Baking the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes. Look for the cheese to be bubbly and golden. Once done, let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. You can garnish with fresh basil leaves if you like.

Tips & Tricks

How to Achieve the Perfect Cheese Layer

To get the best cheese layer, use a mix of cheeses. I love mozzarella for its melt and stretch. Combine it with ricotta for creaminess. Finish with Parmesan for a nice, salty touch. Layer your cheeses in the casserole. Start with half the mixture, then add cheese, and top with the rest. This gives you a cheesy bite in every forkful.

Best Practices for Cooking Spaghetti

Cook your spaghetti just right. Follow the package instructions to get it al dente. This means it should be firm but not hard. Overcooking makes it mushy in the casserole. After cooking, drain the spaghetti well. Don’t rinse it; you want that starch to help the sauce stick.

Flavor Enhancements and Seasoning Tips

Spice up your casserole with fresh herbs. Basil and oregano add great flavor. I also like to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick. Taste your meat sauce before mixing it with the spaghetti. Adjust salt and pepper as needed. If you want a richer taste, add a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers.

Variations

Vegetarian Option

To make a vegetarian version, skip the meat. Use 1 can of chickpeas or lentils instead. This adds protein and keeps it hearty. You can also add mushrooms for extra flavor. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic. They will soak up all the tasty juices.

Gluten-Free Alternatives

If you need a gluten-free option, swap regular spaghetti for gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer tasty gluten-free choices. Make sure to check the package for cooking times. You can also use zucchini noodles, known as zoodles. They add a fresh twist and keep it light.

Incorporating Additional Vegetables

Adding veggies boosts nutrition and flavor. Try bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. Chop them up and add them to the meat sauce. You can also mix in frozen peas or corn for sweetness. This adds color and makes the dish more appealing for kids.

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

After enjoying your cheesy baked spaghetti casserole, let it cool first. Then, store it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to save it longer, consider freezing it.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, take out your leftover casserole. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20 minutes or until hot. You can also microwave single portions for quick meals.

Freezing the Casserole

You can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it well in foil and plastic wrap. This keeps it fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, bake it straight from the freezer, adding extra time if needed. If you freeze after baking, let it cool completely before wrapping.

FAQs

How long does the Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Casserole take to bake?

The Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Casserole takes about 30 to 35 minutes to bake. First, you cover it with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, you remove the foil and bake for an extra 10 to 15 minutes. This helps the cheese get bubbly and golden.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can use different types of cheese in this casserole. While mozzarella is a must for that gooey texture, feel free to mix in cheddar or gouda. Experimenting with cheese can change the flavor and make it fun!

What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread. A fresh salad adds crunch and balance. Garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the cheesy sauce. You can also serve it with a side of steamed veggies for extra nutrition.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make this casserole ahead of time. Just prepare it up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready, bake it straight from the fridge. You may need to add a few minutes to the baking time.

What’s the best way to reheat cheesy spaghetti casserole?

The best way to reheat cheesy spaghetti casserole is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes, or until it’s warm throughout. This keeps the cheese nice and melty.

This blog post shared how to make a Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Casserole. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for the best results. We also looked at fun variations and how to store leftovers.

When you try this recipe, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal. Remember to customize it to your taste. Happy cookin