Layered Spaghetti Bake
A hearty layered spaghetti bake combining tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, combine ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
- Cook until the beef is browned and the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the Ragu sauce, water, and basil leaves.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- While the sauce simmers, prepare spaghetti noodles as directed and drain.
- Layer cooked spaghetti, sauce mixture, cottage cheese mixed with beaten egg, and shredded mozzarella in a baking dish.
- Repeat layers if desired, finishing with mozzarella on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until hot and bubbly, about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using Italian sausage instead of ground beef. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture. If you're short on time, pre-cooked spaghetti can be used. If you prefer a creamier texture, mix some sour cream into the cottage cheese. This dish is similar to Jane'S Lasagna in its layered approach.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this layered spaghetti bake with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Italian recipes featuring garlic and herbs. A light red wine, such as Chianti, complements the flavors well. You can also sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top before serving for added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place portions in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Layered Spaghetti Bake contains roughly 672 calories, with 23g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (47% of the Daily Value), calcium (38% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A.
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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the layered spaghetti bake ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil. If frozen, defrost in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
What can I substitute for cottage cheese?
If you prefer, ricotta cheese can be used as a substitute for cottage cheese, providing a creamier texture. Alternatively, for a lower-fat option, Greek yogurt can be mixed with some herbs to mimic the flavor.
Can I add more cheese to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more mozzarella or even incorporate other cheeses like parmesan or cheddar for added flavor. Just make sure to adjust the baking time slightly, as more cheese can increase cooking time.
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).