Baked Spaghetti with Beef, Marinara, and Mozzarella Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy dinner that hits all the right notes, this Baked Spaghetti with Beef, Marinara, and Mozzarella Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together perfectly cooked spaghetti tossed in a rich, savory beef and marinara sauce, all topped with a golden layer of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This dish is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. The blend of flavors and that irresistible bubbly cheese crust make it a true crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple ingredients work in harmony to build layers of flavor and texture that make this dish shine. Each item has a specific role, whether to add richness, freshness, or that mouthwatering cheesy topping.

• 16 ounces dry spaghetti: The pasta base holds all the delicious sauce and cheese perfectly when baked.
• 1 pound ground chuck: Offers a hearty, meaty texture and rich flavor; can be substituted with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter touch.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and helps soften the onions without burning.
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Brings creamy depth and balances the acidity of the tomato sauce.
• 1 yellow onion, diced: Provides sweetness and an aromatic base for the sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with warm, savory notes that elevate every bite.
• 24 ounces marinara sauce: The heart of the dish, delivering a tangy and herby tomato flavor; homemade or store-bought both work beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil: Freshness and vibrant color that lift the entire meal.
• 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey perfection, creating the quintessential cheesy crust.
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty punch both in the sauce and on top.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing balance to the rich flavors.

How to Make Baked Spaghetti with Beef, Marinara, and Mozzarella Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it warms up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spray of nonstick cooking spray so your baked spaghetti comes out easily without sticking to the sides.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti Perfectly

Cook your spaghetti in salted, boiling water until it’s al dente, which means it should be tender but still have a slight bite. Drain it well because you want to keep that perfect texture when it bakes later.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

While the pasta is cooking, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to break it up into small, nice crumbles as it cooks. This process develops rich flavor and ensures every bite has juicy beef.

Step 4: Drain and Clean the Skillet

Once the beef is cooked through, drain off excess fat and wipe the skillet clean with a paper towel. This keeps things from getting greasy and preps you for cooking the onions next.

Step 5: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add olive oil and butter to the skillet, then toss in the diced onions. Let them soften and become translucent for about 4 to 5 minutes, releasing their natural sweetness. Quickly stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to let its fragrance bloom, but be careful not to burn it.

Step 6: Combine Sauce Ingredients

Add the browned beef back into the skillet along with the marinara sauce, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil, and ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until it’s well combined, then season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting flavors as needed.

Step 7: Mix Spaghetti with Sauce

Introduce your cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing it with the meat sauce until every strand is beautifully coated. This ensures each bite is packed with flavor rather than dry pasta sitting at the bottom.

Step 8: Assemble in the Baking Dish

Transfer this saucy spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top it evenly with the shredded mozzarella and the remaining ¼ cup of grated Parmesan to create that irresistible cheesy layer.

Step 9: Bake Until Hot and Bubbling

Pop the dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just starting to turn golden brown around the edges. This step melds all the flavors and textures wonderfully.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle the last tablespoon of chopped fresh basil over the top for a burst of color and herbaceous brightness. Now it’s ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Baked Spaghetti with Beef, Marinara, and Mozzarella Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh chopped basil is the classic garnish that adds a pop of green and fresh aroma. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil works beautifully to elevate the flavors.

Side Dishes

This baked spaghetti pairs perfectly with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, or some roasted vegetables to balance out the richness. Garlic bread is a no-fail companion, soaking up every bit of the delicious sauce left on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in mini cast-iron skillets or bake in single-serve ramekins for a charming and personal touch. You can also top each serving with a fried egg or some crispy pancetta for a gourmet twist guests will remember.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making the next day just as delicious.

Freezing

This baked spaghetti freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered with foil in a 350°F oven until warmed through to keep the cheese melty and the pasta moist. Alternatively, use a microwave but be sure to cover to avoid drying out your dish.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While spaghetti works wonderfully, you can substitute with penne, rigatoni, or any pasta that holds sauce well. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is ground beef the only meat option?

Nope! Ground chicken or turkey can be used as lighter alternatives, and they still provide great texture with the marinara sauce. For a richer flavor, mixing beef with Italian sausage works great too.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the meat and increase the mushrooms or add plant-based crumbles to keep the hearty texture. Adding extra cheese and herbs will keep the flavors satisfying.

Do I have to use fresh basil?

Fresh basil gives a vibrant lift, but if you only have dried, add about a teaspoon to the sauce during cooking. Adding fresh chopped basil at the end is best if you can manage it.

How can I make the top cheese extra bubbly and crispy?

Make sure to use fresh mozzarella and a mix of Parmesan on top before baking. Broiling for a minute or two after baking can give it a nicely browned, crispy finish just like your favorite pizzeria.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Spaghetti with Beef, Marinara, and Mozzarella Recipe is a truly delightful meal that brings comfort and joy with every bite. It’s one of those recipes that feels special yet comes together quickly and easily, perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or treating yourself. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner that everyone will ask you to make again.

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