Looking for a simple yet delicious family dinner? This easy baked spaghetti recipe is the answer! It’s a one-dish, comfort food meal featuring a rich marinara sauce, tender vegetables, and melted mozzarella cheese. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this baked spaghetti is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s an ideal choice for anyone craving a hearty pasta dish that can be customized to fit dietary preferences. Whether you enjoy it with ground meat or as a vegetarian delight, this baked spaghetti is sure to become a household favorite!

This baked spaghetti casserole is quick to assemble, making it perfect for anyone looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a comforting family meal. Featuring classic ingredients like spaghetti, mozzarella cheese, marinara sauce, and fresh basil, it’s a satisfying and filling dish. Add in some healthy vegetables like bell peppers and onions for a balanced, flavorful meal everyone will love!

Ingredients:

1 pound spaghetti
¼ cup olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 small onion, diced
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
3 cups water
2 cups marinara sauce
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (plus more for garnish)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Grated parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions:

Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375˚F.
Prepare Spaghetti: In a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, place the uncooked spaghetti. Drizzle with olive oil and add minced garlic, diced onions, Italian seasoning, and salt. Toss with your hands to evenly distribute the ingredients.
Add Vegetables and Sauce: Top the spaghetti with diced green bell pepper, canned diced tomatoes, water, marinara sauce, and fresh basil. Use tongs to toss everything together, ensuring the spaghetti is well coated with the sauce and vegetables.
Bake: Bake uncovered for 40 minutes. After 40 minutes, toss the spaghetti and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Continue baking uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil and grated parmesan cheese before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and Quick: This easy baked spaghetti comes together quickly with minimal prep time.
Comforting and Flavorful: The combination of marinara sauce, vegetables, and mozzarella makes it a hearty, comforting meal.
One-Pot Meal: All the ingredients bake together in one dish, making clean-up a breeze.

Tips

Even Cooking: Toss the spaghetti well to ensure it’s evenly coated with the sauce before baking.
Cheese Tip: Use freshly shredded mozzarella for the best melt and flavor.
Bake Time: Make sure to watch the top of the spaghetti while baking to avoid over-browning.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Add-ins: Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken for a heartier dish.
Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian baked spaghetti, simply omit the meat and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.

FAQs

Q: Can I use cooked spaghetti instead of uncooked?
For best results, use uncooked spaghetti as it absorbs the sauce and becomes flavorful while baking. However, if you use cooked pasta, reduce the baking time.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake according to the recipe instructions.

Q: Can I freeze baked spaghetti?
Yes! You can freeze baked spaghetti for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 375˚F for 20-30 minutes or until hot.

Serving

Serve this baked spaghetti with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad to round out the meal.

Suggestions

Extra Toppings: Top with crushed red pepper flakes for a little spice or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added sweetness.
Leftover Ideas: Use leftover baked spaghetti for lunch the next day. It reheats wonderfully!