Baked Spaghetti – Recipe and Cooking Guide

Baked Spaghetti – Recipe and Cooking Guide

Baked Spaghetti is a classic dish from the Italian kitchen, celebrated worldwide for its comforting flavors and fool-proof preparation. Its ingredients are easy to find year-round, and the recipe comes together with minimal effort, making it a go-to choice for busy families.

Beyond its convenience, this dish offers several nutritional benefits. Spaghetti is a prime source of carbohydrates, delivering long-lasting energy, while the cheese and meat supply protein, minerals, and key vitamins. Thanks to the tomato-based sauce, it also boasts fiber that supports healthy digestion.

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Ingredients (Serves 8)

 

• 1 package (about 450 g) spaghetti

• 250 g ground lamb (or beef, if preferred)

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 1 jar (about 700 ml) prepared pasta sauce

• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste

• 2 eggs

• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 5 tablespoons melted butter

• 2 cups ricotta cheese

• 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

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Preparation

1. Cook the spaghetti.
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the spaghetti, and cook until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the meat.
   In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the ground lamb until it loses its pink color and turns lightly browned.

3. Add the aromatics and sauce.
   Stir in the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Pour in the pasta sauce, season with the salt, and let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld.

4. Prepare the cheese mixture.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan, and melted butter until smooth.

5. Combine pasta and cheese.
   Toss the drained spaghetti with the egg-Parmesan-butter mixture until every strand is coated.

6. Layer the casserole.
   Grease a large baking dish. Spread half of the dressed spaghetti on the base, spoon the ricotta over it, and sprinkle with 2 cups of mozzarella. Top with the meat-sauce mixture, then finish with the remaining spaghetti and the last 2 cups of mozzarella.

7. Bake.
   Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350 °F (≈ 175 °C) for about 40 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes, or until the top turns golden and bubbly.

8. Serve.
   Let the casserole rest for a few minutes, then cut into portions and serve hot. Pair it with a crisp green salad for a complete, satisfying meal.

Enjoy this rich, cheesy Baked Spaghetti with family or friends—it’s comfort food at its best, straight from the heart of Italian cuisine.