Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Looking for a hearty, comforting dinner? Baked Spaghetti Casserole is just what you need!

It’s packed with layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, and melted cheese, all baked to perfection. Every bite is cheesy, flavorful, and filling.

Once you try this casserole, it’ll quickly become a family favorite. It’s perfect for busy nights or meal prepping for the week.

Ready to dig in? Grab your ingredients and make this Baked Spaghetti Casserole tonight – it’s easy and delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family Favorite: A classic everyone loves — perfect for both picky eaters and grown-up appetites.
• Cheesy and Satisfying: A blend of mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan makes every bite gooey and rich.
• Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day.
• Freezer-Friendly: Bake one now, freeze one for later.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions make it beginner-friendly.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Servings
Serves about 6 to 8 people as a main dish.

Difficulty
Easy enough for beginner home cooks.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large pot (for boiling spaghetti)
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Mixing bowls
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Whisk or fork (for mixing egg into cheese)
• Aluminum foil (for covering while baking)

Ingredients for Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this dish together. Exact amounts are listed in the recipe card below.

• Spaghetti: Regular or thin spaghetti both work well.
• Ground Beef: Use 80/20 for best flavor, or leaner if preferred.
• Onion: Diced for sweet and savory base flavor.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic adds depth.
• Marinara Sauce: Use store-bought or homemade for the tomato layer.
• Ricotta Cheese or Cottage Cheese: Adds a creamy, rich layer in the middle.
• Egg: Helps bind the cheese layer together.
• Mozzarella Cheese: For melting and gooey texture.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharp, salty flavor.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• Italian Seasoning (optional): A simple way to add extra flavor to the meat sauce.

How to Make Baked Spaghetti Casserole – Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Boil the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti just until al dente—it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Beef and Veggies

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Add the ground beef to the pan. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until fully browned, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

3. Add Sauce and Season

Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 5–10 minutes so the flavors blend. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.

4. Mix the Cheese Layer

In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese) with one beaten egg and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well until combined. This will create the creamy center layer.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, start layering:

• Spread half of the cooked spaghetti evenly on the bottom.
• Add all of the cheese mixture and gently spread it across the noodles.
• Spoon half of the meat sauce over the cheese layer.
• Repeat with the remaining spaghetti and the rest of the sauce.

Sprinkle the top with mozzarella cheese and the remaining Parmesan.

6. Bake

Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Variations for Baked Spaghetti Casserole

• Add Veggies: Mix in chopped spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the meat sauce.
• Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: A lighter alternative to beef.
• Make It Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top before serving.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap spaghetti for spaghetti squash strands.

How to Serve Baked Spaghetti Casserole

This dish is filling on its own but pairs well with:

• A crisp green salad
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls
• Roasted vegetables on the side
• A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for a fresh finish

How to Store Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Refrigerator:
Let leftovers cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Freezer:
To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole as directed but do not bake. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as usual.

To Freeze After Baking:
Let the casserole cool completely. Cut into portions, wrap them individually, and freeze. Reheat from frozen in the microwave or oven until hot in the center.

Tips and Tricks for Success

Don’t overcook the spaghetti: Cook it al dente since it will continue baking.

• Drain the meat well: Too much grease can make the casserole soggy.
• Let it rest: Waiting 10 minutes before slicing helps the layers hold together.
• Use freshly shredded cheese: It melts better and has no added fillers.
• Double the recipe: Make one to eat, one to freeze. It’s a great meal prep option.

Nutrition

Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber
1 slice (1/8 of pan)	~420 kcal	~23g	~35g	~20g	~3g

Note: Nutrition estimates vary depending on exact ingredients and brands used.

Baked Spaghetti Casserole FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. Penne or rotini work well too—just cook until al dente.

Can I leave out the egg?
Yes, though the cheese layer might be a bit looser. The egg helps bind it.

What’s the best cheese substitute for ricotta?
Cottage cheese or a mix of cream cheese and sour cream both work well.

Conclusion

Baked Spaghetti Casserole is cozy, filling, and always a hit. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or planning for leftovers, it’s a dish that’s hard to mess up and easy to love. It’s one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again — and maybe even make your own with a few favorite tweaks.