Cheesy Beefy Baked Spaghetti
Who doesn’t love a hearty and cheesy pasta dish? This Cheesy Beefy Baked Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar of marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions:
- 1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- 2. In a skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat.
- 3. Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes.
- 4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
- 5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining cheese.
- 6. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- 7. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Popular questions:
- Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
- Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe for a leaner option.
A: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste preferences, such as cheddar or provolone.
A: Yes, you can add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to sneak in some extra veggies.
Helpful tips:
- 1. For added flavor, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking.
- 2. Try using whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti for a healthier twist.
Expert Secrets:
- 1. To prevent the cheese from burning, loosely cover the baking dish with foil during the first 20 minutes of baking.
- 2. Make sure to cook the spaghetti al dente to avoid mushy noodles after baking.