Baked Spaghetti Recipe for 9-Inch Pan: Easy & Delicious

Baked spaghetti is a comforting, hearty dish that combines the classic flavors of pasta, savory sauce, and melted cheese into a warm, satisfying meal. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe is easy to assemble and yields a flavorful casserole that holds together beautifully in a 9-inch pan. It’s a great way to enjoy spaghetti with a slightly different twist, featuring a baked, cheesy crust that everyone loves.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces (340 grams) spaghetti pasta
• 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 24 ounces (680 grams) marinara or tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch baking dish or casserole pan with cooking spray or butter.
2. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef or sausage. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes if using.
5. Pour in the marinara sauce and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, meat sauce, beaten eggs, half of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley if using. Mix thoroughly until evenly coated.
7. Transfer the mixture into the prepared 9-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
8. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
11. Let the baked spaghetti rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley or Parmesan if desired.

Tips

• Substitutions: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or vegetarian crumbles if you prefer a meatless version. For cheese, mozzarella can be replaced with Monterey Jack or provolone for variety.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil; it can keep for up to 2 months.
• Common mistakes: Overcooking the pasta can make the dish mushy; cook just until al dente. Also, avoid skipping the eggs—they help bind the casserole and add richness.
• Additional tips: For extra flavor, add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives into the sauce. To prevent cheese from burning, keep an eye on the final baking stage.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your baked spaghetti with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette and some garlic bread or warm baguette for a complete meal. A side of roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli also pairs nicely, balancing the richness of the casserole.

Variations

For a different twist, try adding cooked spinach or kale into the mixture for added greens. You can also layer sliced zucchini or eggplant between the pasta layers for a vegetable-packed version. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or ricotta cheese before baking. For a spicy kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add hot sauce into the sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover baked spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes, covered, until heated through. For larger portions, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent dryness. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare baked spaghetti ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through and cheese is bubbly.

How do I prevent the cheese from burning or becoming too greasy?

To avoid burning, keep an eye on the final few minutes of baking and consider covering the dish with foil if the cheese starts to brown too quickly. Using part skim mozzarella can also reduce greasiness while still providing good meltability.

Can I use cooked leftovers instead of raw pasta?

Absolutely. If you have leftover cooked pasta, simply mix it with the sauce, eggs, and cheese, then transfer to the baking dish. Adjust the baking time slightly, as the pasta is already cooked.

Is baked spaghetti suitable for freezing?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Make sure it is cooled completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It keeps for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What are some good side dishes to serve with baked spaghetti?

Classic options include garlic bread, a fresh green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables. These sides complement the richness of the casserole and add freshness to the meal.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely. Replace the meat with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. Use vegetarian-friendly sauces and cheeses to keep it meatless and still flavorful.

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