Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Get ready foodies, ’cause what I’ve got for you today is a delicious Baked Spaghetti Casserole ��� a comfort food classic that���s perfect for all those family get-togethers, potlucks, or just whenever you’re in the mood for some gooey, cheesy goodness. Delectably rich, undeniably satisfying, and unbelievably easy to make – what’s not to love? The perfect marriage of pasta, hearty meat sauce, and creamy cheeses will leave a party in your mouth and your belly content.

Need more convincing? Listen to this. Its preparation doesn’t involve any complex culinary techniques. That means it’s doable for kitchen newbies while also engaging enough for seasoned cooks. Trust me, this is a dish you’ll be proud to serve, and your diners will love every forkful! Now, let’s dive into the details, shall we?

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Yield: One 9×13 inch pan

Still with me? Great! Grab your apron and let���s get started.

Ingredients & Equipment You’ll Need

• 1 lb spaghetti
• 1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup cottage cheese (or ricotta)
• 2 large eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment: 9×13 inch baking dish, large pot, skillet

Little hint here, the marinara sauce is the core of this dish so opt for your favorite brand or make your own for an extra personal touch. The combination of cheeses is what gives this casserole its glorious creaminess while the ground beef ensures a savory base. Vegetarians ��� don’t worry, you can substitute the meat with mushrooms or a plant-based substitute!

How To Make Baked Spaghetti Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350F and grease your baking dish. Set it aside.
2. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
3. In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the diced onion and minced garlic until the beef is fully cooked and the onion is tender.
4. Stir in marinara sauce to the meat mixture.
5. In a bowl, beat eggs and mix with the cottage (or ricotta) cheese. Stir this into the drained spaghetti.
6. Layer half of the spaghetti mixture in the baking dish, top with half of the meat sauce, then half of the cheeses. Repeat layers.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and browning. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips For The Best Results

• Allow casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. It helps the casserole to set a bit and makes serving easier.
• Want a crispy top? Turn the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking ��� just make sure to keep an eye on it!

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• This Baked Spaghetti Casserole freezes well for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use other types of pasta?

A: Yes, you can. But, do keep in mind that the texture may vary.

Q: What can I serve with this casserole?

A: It pairs well with a fresh salad or some garlic bread.

Q: Can I make it ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! Simply assemble the casserole, cover tightly and store it in the fridge. When you���re ready to eat, bake it as instructed.

Q: Is there a dairy-free alternative?

A: There are many great vegan cheese options available in the market that can be used as a substitute.

Q: Can I add in veggies?

A: Yes, veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini would be great additions.

Nutritional Facts of Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Details coming soon. Stay tuned!

To wrap things up, this Baked Spaghetti Casserole is scrumptiously shareable bliss in a dish. It���s versatile, easy to adapt to preferences, and always ends up a crowd pleaser. Give it a try for your next family dinner and trust me, it will be a sure-fire hit. Enjoy!