Baked Spaghetti with Meat Sauce – Complete Recipe Guide

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🍝 Baked Spaghetti with Meat Sauce – Complete Recipe Guide

🧾 Introduction:

Baked Spaghetti is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the hearty richness of meat sauce with the satisfying texture of al dente pasta. Often found at family dinners, potlucks, and Sunday feasts, this dish transforms traditional spaghetti into a creamy, cheesy, oven-baked masterpiece. The blend of herbs, cheese, and tender beef creates an irresistible flavor that everyone falls in love with.

🧄 Ingredients (Serves 8–10):

For the Meat Sauce:

  • 1 kg (2.2 lbs) ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cups crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 3 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Pasta:

  • 500 g spaghetti
  • Water and salt for boiling

For the Bake:

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 1 egg (for binding if desired)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or ricotta (optional, for creaminess)
  • Chopped parsley (for garnish)

🧑‍🍳 Instructions & Method:

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the spaghetti and cook until just al dente (around 8–9 minutes).
  3. Drain, rinse slightly with warm water, and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce

  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Add chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and soft.
  3. Add ground beef. Brown until fully cooked, breaking it up with a spatula.
  4. Add bell peppers. Cook until slightly softened.
  5. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and sauce.
  6. Season with oregano, basil, paprika, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar.
  7. Let simmer on low heat for 20–30 minutes until thick and rich.

Step 3: Combine Pasta & Sauce

  1. In a large bowl, mix the pasta and meat sauce thoroughly.
  2. If desired, beat one egg and mix with pasta for binding.
  3. Optionally stir in cream or ricotta for extra creaminess.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. In a greased baking tray, layer the pasta mixture.
  3. Sprinkle mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan on top.
  4. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  5. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

  • Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with garlic bread or salad.

📜 History:

Baked spaghetti has roots in Italian-American cuisine. While traditional Italian pasta is often served without baking, Italian immigrants in America began baking pasta dishes as a way to repurpose leftovers and create hearty meals for large families. Over time, it evolved with the addition of American ingredients like cheddar and became a comfort staple.

🧠 Benefits:

  • Rich in Protein: Thanks to the beef and cheese.
  • Energy Booster: Carbohydrates from pasta fuel the body.
  • Full of Flavor: Herbs and spices enhance taste and digestion.
  • Mood-Lifter: Comfort food often lifts spirits and brings warmth.
  • Great for Meal Prep: Freezes well and tastes even better next day.

🧪 Formation (Structure of the Dish):

  • Base Layer: Spaghetti coated in savory meat sauce.
  • Middle Layer (Optional): Cream or ricotta for smooth texture.
  • Top Layer: Melted cheeses for a golden crust.
  • Final Touch: Herbs and seasoning for aroma and taste.

❤️ For the Lovers of Baked Spaghetti:

Baked spaghetti brings people together — from romantic dinners to birthday celebrations and family reunions. Those who love it usually adore:

  • Cheesy dishes
  • Rich, savory meals
  • Easy-to-reheat leftovers
  • Layered flavors
  • Italian-American classics

🧮 Nutrition (Approx. per serving):

  • Calories: 550–600 kcal
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fats: 30g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Calcium: 20% DV
  • Iron: 25% DV

🏁 Conclusion:

Baked Spaghetti with Meat Sauce is more than just a meal — it’s a nostalgic experience wrapped in love, flavor, and comfort. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, impressing dinner guests, or enjoying leftovers late at night, this dish is a timeless classic that never disappoints.

💞 Final Words for the Lovers:

If you’re someone who melts at the sight of gooey cheese, hearty meat sauce, and the perfect bake — this recipe is your soulmate. Share it with someone you love, or make it just for yourself — because every bite is a hug from the kitchen.

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