Baked Italian Spaghetti
A hearty baked spaghetti dish with rich tomato sauce, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners and gatherings requiring comforting, flavorful comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped green pepper in a skillet.
- Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, chili powder, water, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
- Simmer the sauce slowly for 2 hours, adding more water if necessary.
- Cook spaghetti until tender, then rinse with water and drain.
- Layer cooked spaghetti in a large casserole dish alternately with the sauce and grated cheese.
- Bake at 350°F until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For best flavor, let the sauce simmer for the full 2 hours to develop richness. If you're short on time, consider substituting with a jarred marinara sauce for a quicker option. For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes. You can also experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or provolone for a unique twist. This dish is perfect for a crowd or for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked spaghetti with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley can add a nice touch of color and flavor. This dish also pairs beautifully with Easy Spaghetti In The Crock-Pot for a family-friendly feast. For a heartier meal, consider adding a side of roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F covered with foil for about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Italian Spaghetti contains roughly 477 calories, with 28g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (55% of the Daily Value), calcium (53% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1698mg per serving (74% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for a lighter option. You can also use Italian sausage for added flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as necessary to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce ends up too thick, simply add a little more water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and allow it to simmer for a few minutes. This will help the flavors meld together while achieving the right sauce texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).