Craving a warm, comforting, and utterly delicious meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Southern Baked Spaghetti recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Forget those complicated, time-consuming recipes; this one delivers big on flavor with minimal fuss. It's a perfect example of homemade cooking at its best, offering a hearty and satisfying healthy meal the whole family will adore. Let's dive into this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (16 ounce) package spaghetti, cooked al dente
- 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
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Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich and delicious base for your baked spaghetti.
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Prepare the ricotta mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
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Assemble the casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large greased baking dish (9x13 inch is ideal), layer half of the cooked spaghetti, then half of the meat sauce, and then half of the ricotta mixture. Repeat the layers: remaining spaghetti, remaining meat sauce, and finally, the remaining ricotta mixture.
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Top and bake: Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned. This step is key to achieving that perfectly golden, cheesy crust!
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Rest and serve: Let the baked spaghetti rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to serve without it falling apart.
Cooking Tips for the Best Southern Baked Spaghetti:
- Don't overcook the spaghetti: Cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use good quality cheese: The cheese makes a significant difference in the taste of this dish. Opt for fresh, high-quality cheeses whenever possible.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to add more or less of any seasoning to suit your preferences. A pinch of red pepper flakes could add a nice kick!
- Make it ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and baked later. Just cover it and refrigerate until ready to bake, adding about 10 minutes to the baking time.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Incorporate sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the meat sauce for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Use different meats: Substitute ground turkey or Italian sausage for the ground beef.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the ground beef and add extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 400-450 Fat: Approximately 20-25g Protein: Approximately 20-25g Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45g
This delicious Southern Baked Spaghetti is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver incredible flavor and satisfaction. It’s a perfect recipe for busy weeknights, offering a comforting and healthy meal the whole family will enjoy. So, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the magic of this classic comfort food!