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🍝 Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

🌟 Introduction

Baked spaghetti casserole is the perfect blend of comfort food and Italian tradition. It combines the hearty flavors of spaghetti, rich tomato-meat sauce, creamy layers, and melted cheese baked to perfection. Unlike simple boiled pasta, this casserole offers a unique texture – crispy on the edges, cheesy on top, and soft in the middle. It’s a family-friendly dish that works for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or special gatherings.

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📜 History

The roots of baked pasta trace back to Italy, where lasagna and similar layered pasta dishes were popular since the Middle Ages. Italian immigrants brought these recipes to America, adapting them with ingredients available locally. Over time, baked spaghetti emerged as a simpler, cost-effective alternative to lasagna, becoming a staple in Southern kitchens and beyond. Today, it’s loved worldwide for its cheesy, saucy goodness.

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✅ Benefits

1. Nutritious Balance – Provides carbs (pasta), protein (meat & cheese), and healthy fats.
2. Customizable – Works with chicken, beef, or vegetarian substitutions.
3. Meal Prep Friendly – Can be made ahead and reheated.
4. Family Favorite – Appeals to kids and adults alike.
5. Energy Boosting – A hearty meal that keeps you full and energized.

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📝 Ingredients

For the pasta base:

• 400g (14 oz) spaghetti
• 1 tbsp salt (for boiling pasta)
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the meat sauce:

• 500g (1 lb) ground beef (or sausage/turkey)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (400g/14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the creamy layer:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 egg (optional, for binding)

For topping:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese

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👩‍🍳 Instructions & Methods

Step 1 – Cook Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.
2. Cook spaghetti until just al dente (slightly firm).
3. Drain, toss with 1 tbsp olive oil, and set aside.

Step 2 – Prepare Meat Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet.
2. Add onions, sauté until soft.
3. Stir in garlic, then add ground beef. Cook until browned.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until thickened.

Step 3 – Mix Creamy Layer

1. In a bowl, combine ricotta, sour cream, and egg.
2. Mix until smooth.

Step 4 – Assemble the Casserole (Formation)

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a greased baking dish:
   • Spread half of the spaghetti.
   • Add a layer of creamy ricotta mixture.
   • Spread half of the meat sauce.
   • Repeat layers with remaining pasta, ricotta, and sauce.
3. Top with mozzarella and parmesan cheese.

Step 5 – Bake

1. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Step 6 – Serve

• Let it rest for 10 minutes before cutting into squares.

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🥗 Nutrition (per serving – approx. 8 servings)

• Calories: ~420 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Calcium: 220mg

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💖 Lovers of This Dish

• Cheese lovers – It’s cheesy, gooey, and satisfying.
• Family cooks – Perfect for feeding a crowd.
• Meal preppers – Stays delicious when reheated.
• Pasta lovers – Combines the best of spaghetti and lasagna.

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🎯 Conclusion

Baked spaghetti casserole is a timeless comfort dish blending tradition, nutrition, and indulgence. Its origins may be humble, but its flavors are rich and heartwarming. For lovers of pasta and cheese, this dish is more than just food – it’s a celebration of togetherness. Whether served at a family table or shared at a gathering, it always brings smiles and satisfaction.

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