If you’re craving a cozy, family-friendly meal that feels like a warm hug, this Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe has got your back. Combining tender spaghetti, hearty seasoned beef, and a luscious blend of cheeses baked to bubbly perfection, this dish is a total crowd-pleaser. It’s comfort food elevated with a lovely balance of savory flavors and creamy textures, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Once you make this recipe, it’s bound to become your go-to for satisfying everyone’s hungry appetites with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple staples that come together to create layers of flavor and texture, giving this baked spaghetti casserole its irresistible charm. Each component plays a vital role—beef adds heft and savoriness, the cheeses bring creamy richness, and the veggies introduce a subtle freshness that keeps every bite lively.
- 1 (16-oz) package spaghetti (uncooked): The foundation of the dish, providing that classic pasta base.
- 1 tablespoon oil (for cooking beef): Helps brown the meat and veggies beautifully without sticking.
- 1 pound ground beef: Adds hearty protein and rich flavor.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning the beef and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle kick of garlicky goodness that deepens the profile.
- 1 medium onion (diced, about 1 cup): Sweetness and softness as it cooks down with the beef.
- 2 sticks celery (diced, about 1 cup): Adds a slight crunch and earthiness.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A fragrant mix that gives the sauce classic Italian flair.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor to enrich the sauce.
- 1 (15-oz) can diced tomatoes: Balances the paste with juicy acidity.
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese (softened): Creamy base for the cheese layer, smooths everything out.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Light, fluffy texture that adds silkiness.
- 1/4 cup sour cream: Adds tang and richness to the cheese mix.
- 1 (8-oz) package shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly for that irresistible golden topping.
How to Make Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Get Everything Ready
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a deep 13×9-inch baking dish thoroughly so nothing sticks during baking. Having all your ingredients prepped and nearby makes the whole process smooth and enjoyable.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Boil the spaghetti following the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, return it to the pot, drizzle with a little oil to keep the strands separated, cover, and set aside. This keeps your noodles from sticking while you move on to the sauce.
Step 3: Brown the Beef and Vegetables
While the pasta is cooking, heat your oil in a large skillet on medium-high. Toss in the ground beef along with salt, pepper, and garlic powder and cook until it’s browned and fragrant. Drain off any excess grease if you want a leaner casserole. Add diced onion and celery and cook them until they soften, about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors.
Step 4: Make the Tomato Sauce
Lower the heat to medium, then stir in Italian seasoning and tomato paste with the beef and veggies. Add the canned diced tomatoes and let it all simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This step deepens the sauce’s flavor and melds everything into a harmonious, saucy base for the casserole.
Step 5: Prepare the Cheese Layer
In a bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, ricotta, and sour cream until you get a smooth, creamy blend. This simple mix acts as a luscious, tangy layer that contrasts beautifully with the savory meat sauce.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Spread a quarter of the meat sauce evenly along the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Layer half of the cooked spaghetti over the sauce, then spread the cheese mixture over the noodles. Top that with the remaining spaghetti. Spoon the rest of the meat sauce on top, and finish by sprinkling the shredded mozzarella evenly over everything.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake your casserole uncovered in the 350°F oven for 35 to 45 minutes until it’s bubbling hot and the cheese is melted and golden. Once out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes to set, then grab a big spoon and dig into the comforting goodness.
How to Serve Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkling of fresh chopped basil or parsley brightens up the rich casserole with a pop of color and a fresh, herbal note. A light dusting of grated Parmesan adds extra nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the mozzarella.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls are stellar companions—perfect for sopping up any extra sauce left on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful twist, try individual portions baked in small ramekins for a personal touch. Layer with roasted veggies or swap ground beef for Italian sausage to customize flavors. A drizzle of balsamic reduction over the top adds a sophisticated finish that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe tastes even better the next day! Store it tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to use an airtight container or cover the dish with foil or plastic wrap.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully—just assemble it and freeze before baking, or freeze leftovers after cooling. Wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep for up to 3 months, making it a perfect make-ahead meal.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm individual portions in the microwave or bake covered at 350°F until heated through and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes. Sprinkle a bit of extra mozzarella on top before reheating for a fresh cheesy crust.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this casserole?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works beautifully in this recipe, you can swap in penne, rigatoni, or ziti for a different texture and shape that holds sauce well.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or your favorite plant-based meat alternative. The combination of cheese and tomato sauce still creates a rich and satisfying flavor.
How spicy is the Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe?
This recipe is mild and family-friendly. If you like a bit of heat, you can add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce or sprinkle some chili powder for a subtle spicy kick.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
You can definitely assemble the casserole a day ahead and keep it refrigerated before baking. Just add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated all the way through.
What kind of cheese can I substitute if I don’t have ricotta?
Cottage cheese makes a great substitute for ricotta in this recipe. Blend it slightly to smooth out the curds before mixing it with cream cheese and sour cream for the cheese layer.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table with ease. Every bite offers a delicious balance of cheesy creaminess, savory meat sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. If you’re looking to impress your family or friends with a meal that feels like a loving homemade hug, this recipe is absolutely worth trying. Trust me, once you give it a go, it’ll hold a special place in your recipe collection for many weeks to come.
Print
Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Baked Spaghetti Casserole combines tender spaghetti noodles with a savory meat and vegetable tomato sauce, layered with a creamy blend of cream cheese, ricotta, and sour cream, then topped with melted mozzarella. Perfect for family dinners, this comforting casserole bakes to bubbly, cheesy perfection and serves eight generously.
Ingredients
Spaghetti
- 1 (16-oz) package spaghetti (uncooked)
- 1 tablespoon oil
Meat and Sauce
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 medium onion, diced (about 1 cup)
- 2 sticks celery, diced (about 1 cup)
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 (15-oz) can diced tomatoes
Cheese Mixture
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 (8-oz) package shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Get started: Heat the oven to 350°F. Grease a deep 13×9-inch baking dish and set aside. Prepare all your ingredients so they are ready to go.
- Cook spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, return it to the pot, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of oil, cover to keep warm, and set aside.
- Brown the beef and vegetables: While the spaghetti cooks, heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, seasoning with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain excess grease if desired. Add diced onion and celery and cook together for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Make the tomato sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Stir Italian seasoning and tomato paste into the beef and vegetable mixture. Add diced tomatoes and let the sauce simmer gently for 5 minutes. Remove from heat once done.
- Stir up the cheese layer: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, and sour cream. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Put it together: Spread about one-quarter of the meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Add half of the cooked spaghetti in an even layer. Spread the cheese mixture over the pasta. Add the remaining spaghetti on top, followed by the remaining meat sauce. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35-45 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or sautéed mushrooms and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
- You can prepare the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking; increase bake time by 5-10 minutes if baking cold.
- Use low-fat or part-skim cheeses to reduce fat content if desired.
- Ensure to drain excess grease from the beef for a less greasy casserole.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and also freeze nicely for up to 2 months.
