Baked spaghetti is a popular casserole dish made by layering cooked spaghetti with a meat-based tomato sauce and cheese. The dish is then baked in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Baked spaghetti is a hearty and comforting meal that is easy to prepare and can feed a large crowd. It can be made with various variations, such as the addition of vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or different types of meat such as sausage or chicken. Some recipes call for the addition of a beaten egg to the spaghetti mixture, which helps to bind the dish together.
Serving and preparation time:
Servings: This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Preparation Time: Total preparation time is approximately 30 minutes, including cooking the spaghetti and browning the beef. Bake time is 25-30 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Cook the spaghetti according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked spaghetti, followed by half of the sauce, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
- Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the baked spaghetti cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
The best serving time for baked spaghetti is when the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, which is typically after 25-30 minutes in the oven. The dish should be allowed to cool for a few minutes before serving, as the contents will be hot. Baked spaghetti is typically served as a main dish, and can be accompanied by a salad or garlic bread, if desired.
Baked spaghetti can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, and can also be frozen for up to 2 months. When reheating, the dish can be microwaved or baked in the oven until heated through.
Overall, baked spaghetti is a versatile and delicious dish that can be customised to suit personal taste preferences. Baked spaghetti is a popular dish with kids due to its comforting and familiar taste. The combination of tender spaghetti, savoury tomato sauce, and melted cheese is often a hit with children. Additionally, the fact that it is a one-dish meal can also be appealing to kids and families, as it is easy to prepare and serve.
However, the popularity of baked spaghetti with kids can vary depending on individual tastes and preferences. Some kids may prefer more mild or sweeter flavours, while others may prefer a more bold or spicy taste. It’s best to try the dish and see if your kids enjoy it, and if not, make adjustments to the recipe as needed to better suit their tastes.
