Baked Spaghetti: A Comfort Food Classic, Reimagined
Baked spaghetti. Just the name conjures up images of bubbling cheese, tender pasta, and a rich, savory sauce. It's a classic comfort food, perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. But let's elevate this dish beyond the ordinary, creating a baked spaghetti that's both delicious and impressive. This recipe focuses on techniques to ensure perfectly cooked pasta and a beautifully browned, cheesy top. Let's get started!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe makes a generous serving for 6-8 people. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.
- 1 pound spaghetti: Choose a good quality pasta for the best results.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Provides a sweet and savory base for the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a pungent and aromatic depth of flavor.
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes: The foundation of our delicious sauce.
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce: Adds richness and complexity to the tomato base.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic Italian herb that complements the tomatoes perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Another essential Italian herb, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat, adjust to your preference.
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage: Adds heartiness and protein. You can also use a vegetarian substitute like lentils or mushrooms.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: The essential topping for that classic baked spaghetti experience.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, sharp note that cuts through the richness of the sauce.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the aromatics.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prepare the Pasta: Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Don't overcook! We'll be baking it further, so slightly firm pasta is ideal.
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Make the Sauce: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef (or sausage) to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss gently to coat.
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Assemble and Bake: Pour the spaghetti mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.
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Rest and Serve: Let the baked spaghetti rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes it easier to serve.
Tips for the Best Baked Spaghetti:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Slightly al dente pasta is crucial for preventing mushiness in the final dish.
- Use good quality ingredients: The better your ingredients, the better your baked spaghetti will taste.
- Let the sauce simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer develops the flavors and creates a richer, more complex taste.
- Don't be afraid to experiment: Add your favorite vegetables, meats, or cheeses to customize the recipe.
Keywords: Baked Spaghetti Recipe, Easy Baked Spaghetti, Comfort Food, Italian Recipe, Family Dinner, Weeknight Dinner, Spaghetti Recipe, Cheesy Baked Spaghetti
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