Go Back

Baked Spaghetti Casserole

A comforting, protein-packed meal combining lean ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and creamy cheeses, perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

Casserole Base
  • 8 ounces spaghetti noodles (broken in half) Acts as the base of the casserole.
  • 1 pound 90 to 92% lean ground beef Offers protein while minimizing fat content.
  • ½ cup diced white or yellow onion Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic Elevates the overall taste profile.
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning Brings aromatic herbs together for a savory experience.
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste) Enhances all flavors in the dish.
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Adds a hint of spice.
  • 24 ounces marinara sauce (your favorite brand) Provides moisture and flavor.
  • 15 ounce can diced tomatoes (don’t drain) Introduces texture and freshness.
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh Italian parsley A finishing touch for color and brightness.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Used for sautéing veggies and browning meat.
  • 1 large egg (lightly beaten) Acts as a binder for the casserole ingredients.
  • ¾ cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese (divided) Two-layered cheesy goodness.
  • 1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese Creamy and flavorful addition.
  • 2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese (about 8 ounces divided) Melts beautifully into the dish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
  2. Cook the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes.
  5. Once the meat is browned, stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well before adding the marinara sauce and diced tomatoes. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
  6. In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti noodles with the meat sauce mixture. Stir in the chopped parsley and one half of the Parmesan cheese.
Assemble and Bake
  1. Coat a 13- x 9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Spoon half of the spaghetti mixture into the dish and spread it evenly.
  2. Add whisked egg and ricotta cheese in dollops on top. Layer with the remaining spaghetti.
  3. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top of the casserole.
  4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Notes

Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This dish freezes excellently, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.