Mozzarella Spaghetti
A hearty spaghetti dish featuring flavorful meat sauce topped with melted mozzarella, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings with rich tomato and Parmesan flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with chopped onion, salt, and pepper, then drain excess fat.
- Add Parmesan cheese, tomato sauce with tomato bits, and spaghetti spices to the beef mixture. Simmer for approximately 30 minutes.
- Boil and drain the spaghetti.
- Place cooked spaghetti on a large platter or in a casserole dish.
- Cover spaghetti with the meat sauce.
- Top with mozzarella cheese.
- Place in a hot oven until the cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or bell peppers when browning the beef. If you prefer a lighter dish, swap ground beef for ground turkey or a meat substitute. Feel free to use whole wheat spaghetti for added fiber. For extra creaminess, mix in a bit of ricotta cheese. This recipe pairs beautifully with Joe'S Lasagna for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of red wine complements the flavors beautifully. For a different take, try serving it alongside Spaghetti Squash Italian for a lighter option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mozzarella Spaghetti contains roughly 812 calories, with 40g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (80% of the Daily Value), calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2704mg per serving (118% 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 cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan are traditional, you can experiment with cheeses like provolone or cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the melting properties may vary, affecting the final texture of your dish.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of the meat sauce, and add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to enhance the dish's heartiness without losing flavor.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a little water or broth. Stir it in gradually until you reach your desired consistency. Additionally, a splash of red wine can enhance the flavor while adjusting the thickness.
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).