Baked Spaghetti

Here’s the recipe for Baked Spaghetti:

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 2 jars pasta sauce
• 1 pound spaghetti
• 2 bell peppers, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 16 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
• 12 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
• 16 ounces ricotta cheese
• 3 tablespoons cream cheese
• Shredded Parmesan cheese
• Salt, pepper, Kinders seasoning blend
• Garlic powder
• Dried basil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the chopped bell peppers, onions, salt, pepper, Kinders seasoning blend, garlic powder, and dried basil. Cook until the beef is fully cooked and the vegetables are softened.
3. Drain any excess grease from the skillet, then add the pasta sauce, ricotta cheese, cream cheese, and a handful of shredded Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated. Let it simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente, about 6-7 minutes. Drain the spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the sauce mixture. Mix well until all the noodles are coated with the sauce.
5. Transfer the spaghetti mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with another handful of shredded Parmesan cheese, the shredded mozzarella cheese, and the fresh mozzarella slices.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
7. Serve the baked spaghetti hot with garlic bread on the side.

Enjoy your delicious Baked Spaghetti!

Here are some common questions and their answers related to Baked Spaghetti:

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
   • Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding it to the sauce.
2. Can I use different types of pasta?
   • While spaghetti is traditional for this dish, you can use other types of pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
3. Can I freeze Baked Spaghetti?
   • Yes, Baked Spaghetti freezes well. Once it has cooled completely, you can portion it into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake it in the oven until heated through.
4. Can I add vegetables to Baked Spaghetti?
   • Absolutely! Adding vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce mixture can add flavor and nutrition to the dish. Just make sure to cook them until they’re tender before mixing them with the spaghetti.
5. What can I serve with Baked Spaghetti?
   • Baked Spaghetti is delicious on its own but can be served with a side salad, garlic bread, or even some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.