Here’s a rich, comforting Baked Beef Spaghetti recipe that’s crispy on top, saucy in the middle, and packed with flavor—perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prep!
🍝 Baked Beef Spaghetti (Cheesy & Crispy!) 🧀
🍽️ Servings: 6-8
⏳ Prep Time: 15 mins | 🍳 Cook Time: 30 mins
📝 Ingredients
Meat Sauce:
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1 lb (450g) ground beef (or Italian sausage for extra flavor)
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1 onion, diced
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or 3 cups homemade)
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1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt & black pepper to taste
Pasta & Topping:
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12 oz (340g) spaghetti, broken in half
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1 cup shredded mozzarella
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½ cup grated Parmesan
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1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
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2 tbsp butter, melted
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¼ cup breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta:
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Boil spaghetti 1-2 minutes LESS than package instructions (it’ll finish cooking in the oven). Drain.
2️⃣ Make the Meat Sauce:
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Brown beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain fat.
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Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
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Stir in marinara, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt & pepper. Simmer 5 mins.
3️⃣ Assemble:
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In a greased 9×13″ baking dish, mix cooked spaghetti with meat sauce.
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Dollop ricotta over the top, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
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Mix melted butter and breadcrumbs, sprinkle over cheese.
4️⃣ Bake:
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Cover with foil, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 mins.
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Uncover, broil 2-3 mins until golden and bubbly.
5️⃣ Serve:
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Let rest 5 mins, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
🌟 Pro Tips:
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Extra veggies? Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce.
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Make ahead: Assemble, refrigerate overnight, and bake the next day (+10 mins covered).
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Freezer-friendly: Wrap tightly, freeze unbaked for up to 3 months.
Crispy, cheesy, and deeply savory—this baked spaghetti beats takeout! 😋
Love a twist? Try adding pepperoni slices under the cheese for a “pizza spaghetti” vibe! 🍕
