Classic Baked Spaghetti is a comforting and delicious dish that brings the warm flavors of Italian cooking right to your kitchen. This easy recipe features layers of spaghetti noodles, Italian sausage, marinara sauce, and a generous helping of cheese. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Classic Baked Spaghetti is not only simple but also satisfying. It’s a great way to feed a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of flavors from the sausage, cheese, and marinara sauce creates a hearty meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that you can customize according to your taste. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
How to Make Classic Baked Spaghetti
Follow these straightforward steps to create your own Classic Baked Spaghetti at home.
Ingredients:
- 16 ounces spaghetti noodles
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 medium chopped onion
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 36 ounces marinara sauce
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 5 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray a 9 x 13 deep casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
- Cook the 16 ounces of spaghetti noodles in boiling water according to the package directions for al dente pasta. Drain and rinse with cold water, then set aside. (For best results, cook your noodles for 1-2 minutes less than recommended for a firmer texture.)
- In a 12-inch skillet, add 1 pound of Italian sausage and cook over medium-high heat until no pink remains, about 7-10 minutes. Drain the fat.
- Add 1 medium chopped onion and 1 tablespoon minced garlic to the pan, cooking for 2 minutes.
- Stir in the 36 ounces of marinara sauce, ¼ cup tomato paste, 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper. Mix well and then remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, combine 2 large eggs, ¾ cup grated parmesan cheese, and 5 tablespoons melted unsalted butter. Add the cooked spaghetti noodles and mix until fully coated.
- Layer half of the spaghetti noodles in the prepared baking dish, followed by half of the sausage sauce and half of the 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat with the rest of the noodles, sauce, and cheese.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts and starts to brown. Optionally, broil for 1-2 minutes for a crispy top.
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before topping with 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil. Serve and enjoy!
How to Serve Classic Baked Spaghetti
Serve your Classic Baked Spaghetti hot from the oven, garnished with fresh basil. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad and garlic bread. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties, offering a hearty and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
How to Store Classic Baked Spaghetti
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the baked spaghetti for longer storage. To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. Reheat in the oven to enjoy again!
Tips to Make Classic Baked Spaghetti
- For added flavor, try using different types of meat, like ground beef or turkey.
- You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the sausage mixture for extra nutrition.
- Experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or provolone, to change the flavor profile.
Variation
If you’d like a lighter version, substitute whole wheat spaghetti and use turkey sausage instead of regular Italian sausage. You can also swap marinara for a lighter tomato sauce.
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-cooked spaghetti for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked spaghetti. Just ensure it’s heated properly and mix it well with the sauce.
2. Is it necessary to layer the ingredients?
While layering helps distribute flavors, you can also mix everything together in one bowl before placing it in the baking dish if you prefer.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly until you’re ready to bake.
Enjoy making this delicious Classic Baked Spaghetti and sharing it with your loved ones!
Classic Baked Spaghetti
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 16 ounces spaghetti noodles Cook until al dente.
- 36 ounces marinara sauce
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound Italian sausage Cook until no pink remains.
- 1 medium chopped onion
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
Egg and Cheese Mixture
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 5 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Garnishes
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil For topping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9 x 13 deep casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cook spaghetti noodles according to package directions for al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat until no pink remains, about 7-10 minutes. Drain the fat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan; cook for 2 minutes.
- Stir in marinara sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, combine eggs, grated parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Add cooked spaghetti and mix until coated.
Assembly and Cooking
- Layer half of the spaghetti in the baking dish, then half of the sausage sauce and half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until cheese is melted and starts to brown.
- Optionally, broil for 1-2 minutes for a crispy top.
- Let sit for 5-10 minutes before topping with fresh basil. Serve and enjoy.
