Spaghetti-Gratin
A creamy, cheesy spaghetti bake layered with fresh tomatoes, herbs, bacon, and melted Gruyere, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Butter a baking dish.
- Cook spaghetti until al dente, then drain and mix with parsley and oregano.
- Slice tomatoes and layer over the spaghetti in the dish.
- Sprinkle basil on top.
- Grate Gruyere cheese and sprinkle over the tomatoes.
- Add crumbled bacon and chopped onions on top of the cheese.
- Pour heavy cream over the entire mixture.
- Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 20 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using pancetta instead of bacon. You can also substitute the Gruyere cheese with mozzarella or cheddar if necessary. If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms for depth. Fresh herbs can enhance the dish, so feel free to experiment with thyme or rosemary alongside the parsley and oregano.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Spaghetti-Gratin hot with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette for a light pairing. Garlic bread or a side of steamed vegetables complements this dish well. For a delightful drink, consider pairing it with Peach Bellinis for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gratin.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will help retain the dish's crispy top.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti-Gratin contains roughly 546 calories, with 29g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (152% of the Daily Value), calcium (120% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (116% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 769mg per serving (33% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Spaghetti-Gratin a day in advance. Assemble the dish without baking, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, preheat the oven and bake as directed. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I use instead of cream for a lighter option?
You can substitute the cream with a mix of milk and a little flour to thicken, or use a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter, dairy-free version. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the texture.
How can I prevent the spaghetti from sticking together?
To prevent sticking, make sure to stir the spaghetti during cooking and toss it with a bit of olive oil after draining. This will help keep the noodles separate and ensure they mix well with the other ingredients.
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).