If you are craving a hearty, soul-satisfying meal that combines the comfort of pasta with the savory goodness of ground beef and a luscious cheesy topping, this Easy Baked Spaghetti with Ground Beef and Cheesy Topping Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a game-changer for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, bringing together simple ingredients to create a dish full of rich flavors and irresistible textures. The golden, bubbly cheese on top is the kind of finish that makes everyone ask for seconds, and the best part is how straightforward it is to whip up this crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, from infusing flavor to adding texture and color, yet the list is refreshingly simple. These basics are pantry-friendly and come together to create that perfect comfort food harmony that makes this recipe a favorite.
- 1 pound uncooked spaghetti: The perfect base that soaks up the sauce and holds everything together with just the right amount of bite.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Adds hearty protein and savory depth, making the dish filling and satisfying.
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped: Offers subtle sweetness and aromatic depth that elevates the flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning: Brings an earthy, herbal note that ties the dish to classic Italian flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a hint of spicy warmth if you like a little kick in your meal.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with that irresistible garlic aroma and taste we all love.
- 4 cups marinara sauce: The tomato base that adds acidity, sweetness, and moisture, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella: Melts into a gooey, stretchy layer that’s classic comfort food.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar: Offers sharpness and depth to the cheesy topping—don’t skip this!
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that enhances the overall cheese blend beautifully.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A fresh herb garnish that adds vibrant color and a little brightness to each serving.
How to Make Easy Baked Spaghetti with Ground Beef and Cheesy Topping Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Oven and Pasta Ready
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and positioning your rack in the top third of the oven. Then boil a large pot of salted water for the spaghetti, cooking it just two minutes less than package instructions. This ensures it will finish cooking perfectly in the oven without becoming mushy. Once cooked, drain the pasta and spread it into a 9×13-inch casserole dish, creating the perfect base layer.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef and Onions
While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef along with the chopped onion, dried oregano, and if you like a bit of heat, the red pepper flakes. The beef should release enough fat to gently cook the onions; if it’s very lean, just drizzle in a tablespoon of olive oil to keep things moving smoothly. Stir occasionally and cook until the beef is nicely browned and fully cooked through, about 10 minutes. Remove excess fat if there’s a lot, keeping the pan just right for adding the remaining ingredients.
Step 3: Build the Saucy Goodness
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant. Then pour in the marinara sauce, stirring everything together. Let it simmer just long enough to heat through and marry the flavors, about 3-5 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. This sauce is the heart of the dish, rich and flavorful, ready to coat the spaghetti.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Meat Sauce
Pour the warm meat sauce mixture evenly over the spaghetti in your casserole dish. Use a spatula or spoon to toss and coat the noodles thoroughly. Then smooth the top so it bakes evenly. This step ensures every forkful delivers that perfect bite of pasta and meaty sauce.
Step 5: The Cheesy Finish and Baking
Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar evenly over the top of the saucy pasta, then finish with a hearty dusting of parmesan. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes until bubbling and golden. For that extra melty, golden crust, switch the oven to broil for just a few minutes—watch very closely to avoid burning. Once out of the oven, let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes to set up before serving.
How to Serve Easy Baked Spaghetti with Ground Beef and Cheesy Topping Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a lovely pop of green and a burst of fresh flavor that warms up the rich, hearty nature of the baked spaghetti. You can also add a little extra grated parmesan on top for good measure!
Side Dishes
This baked spaghetti team works wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides. A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette helps cut through the richness. Garlic bread or warm focaccia on the side is an unbeatable combo that soaks up any stray sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the baked spaghetti in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets. This not only makes serving easier but adds a cozy, rustic charm that impresses at casual dinners or when hosting friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even further overnight, making it a fantastic next-day meal.
Freezing
This Easy Baked Spaghetti with Ground Beef and Cheesy Topping Recipe freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftovers in an oven-safe dish and bake at 350°F until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave covered and stir halfway through heating for a quicker option.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Although spaghetti works great, you can substitute with penne, rigatoni, or any pasta you have on hand. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef with plant-based meat crumbles or add sautéed mushrooms and extra veggies to keep it hearty and delicious without the meat.
What cheeses work best for the cheesy topping?
Combining mozzarella for melt, cheddar for sharpness, and parmesan for a nutty finish is ideal. Feel free to experiment with provolone or gouda for different flavor profiles.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time before baking?
Yes, you can fully assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s straight from the fridge.
How spicy is this dish with the crushed red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper adds just a gentle warmth, not overpowering heat. You can adjust or omit it based on your taste preference.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Baked Spaghetti with Ground Beef and Cheesy Topping Recipe is a winner every time. It’s full of comforting flavors, simple to make, and irresistibly cheesy on top—perfect for family dinners or feeding a crowd. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!
Print
Easy Baked Spaghetti with Ground Beef and Cheesy Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This easy baked spaghetti recipe features perfectly cooked spaghetti combined with a flavorful ground beef and marinara sauce mixture, topped with a generous layer of melted mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan cheeses. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 pound uncooked spaghetti
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- Salt & pepper to taste
Cheese Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 cup shredded cheddar
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position the rack in the top third of the oven to prepare it for baking the assembled spaghetti dish.
- Cook Spaghetti: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti for 2 minutes less than the package directions recommend to ensure it’s slightly undercooked. Drain the pasta and transfer it to a 9×13-inch casserole or baking dish.
- Prepare Meat Sauce: In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. If the beef is particularly lean, add a tablespoon of olive oil for cooking. Stir occasionally and cook until the meat is thoroughly browned, about 10 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Garlic and Sauce: Stir minced garlic into the skillet and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the marinara sauce and heat it through, cooking for a few minutes more. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the meat sauce over the cooked spaghetti in the baking dish and toss gently until the pasta is evenly coated. Smooth the mixture into an even layer.
- Add Cheese Layer: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and freshly grated parmesan evenly over the top of the spaghetti mixture.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld together.
- Broil for Golden Cheese: Optionally, switch your oven to broil and broil the dish for a few minutes to achieve a golden-brown top. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the baked spaghetti from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. Cut into squares using a spatula. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- For leaner ground beef, adding a tablespoon of olive oil helps cook the onions and adds moisture.
- You can substitute the marinara sauce with homemade tomato sauce for a fresher taste.
- Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to control the spice level or omit if you prefer a milder dish.
- Letting the baked spaghetti rest before serving helps it set and makes cutting easier.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and melt quality.
- Storing leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days is recommended; reheat covered to retain moisture.
