Would You Eat This Baked Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
Instructions
Cook the Meat Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened. Drain excess fat. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer 10 minutes for flavors to meld.
Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook Spaghetti: Boil spaghetti according to package instructions, drain, and toss lightly with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Layer the Dish:
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the dish.
Add half the spaghetti.
Spoon half of the ricotta (if using) over the noodles.
Sprinkle with half the mozzarella and some Parmesan.
Repeat layers with remaining spaghetti, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
Finish with a generous layer of meat sauce on top.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Let the baked spaghetti rest 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil. Slice and serve!
Why You’d Want to Eat This:
Cheesy, saucy, and hearty—every bite is comforting.
Perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Leftovers are even better the next day.
If you want, I can also give a shortcut version where everything is mixed in one pan and baked, so it’s even easier to make on a busy night.
Do you want me to share that shortcut version too?
