Best Easy Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Baked spaghetti casserole tops pasta and meat sauce with a layer of melted mozzarella for a family comfort food classic. This protein-rich, freezer-friendly dish is easy to double for potlucks and meal prep.

Cook 60 min Difficulty NORMAL 420 kcal
#high protein #family dinner #freezer meal #potluck
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • dried spaghetti 12 oz
  • ground beef 1 lb
  • yellow onion 1 pieces
  • garlic cloves 2 cloves
  • crushed tomatoes 2 cups
  • shredded mozzarella cheese 2 cups
  • parmesan cheese 0.5 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • olive oil 2 tbsp
  • dried Italian seasoning 1 tsp
  • salt 1 tsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 52 g 50%
Protein 22 g 21%
Fat 13 g 29%
Serving size 350g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

  2. 2

    In a large pot, cook the spaghetti in boiling salted water for 2 minutes less than package directions, then drain and set aside.

  3. 3

    While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.

  4. 4

    Add ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking apart with a spatula, until browned and no pink remains. Drain excess fat if needed.

  5. 5

    Stir in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the sauce for 8–10 minutes over medium-low heat, allowing flavors to meld.

  6. 6

    Add drained spaghetti to the meat sauce and toss to coat evenly. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish.

  7. 7

    Top evenly with shredded mozzarella and sprinkle with parmesan cheese.

  8. 8

    Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes on the center rack, until the cheese is melted and bubbling around the edges. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this baked spaghetti casserole?
The essential ingredient is dried spaghetti, which provides the foundational texture. The combination of ground beef, crushed tomatoes, and plenty of mozzarella cheese defines the dish's comforting flavor and richness.
Q. What's the most important cooking step for the perfect casserole?
Baking the assembled casserole uncovered at 375°F ensures the mozzarella melts and the top turns golden and bubbly, which creates that signature cheesy crust. Be sure to let the dish rest before cutting for easy portions.
Q. How can I prevent overcooking the pasta in this casserole?
Cook the spaghetti for 2 minutes less than package directions. This way, it finishes cooking in the oven and won't become mushy in the final dish.
Q. How many calories and how much protein are there per serving?
Each 350g serving contains approximately 420 kcal, with 22g protein—giving this casserole a protein-to-carb ratio of about 21:50. The satisfying balance makes it a filling family meal.
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