Cheesy Baked Spaghetti with Garlic Bread

Introduction

Imagine a piping hot dish of spaghetti, coated in a rich and flavorful tomato sauce, topped with a generous amount of melted cheese. The aroma fills the kitchen as it bakes in the oven, promising a mouthwatering experience. This Cheesy Baked Spaghetti with Garlic Bread recipe is a delightful twist on the classic spaghetti dish, combining the comfort of pasta with the indulgence of gooey cheese. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Let’s dive in and discover how to create this cheesy masterpiece!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Baked Spaghetti with Garlic Bread recipe is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:

Easy to make: With simple ingredients and clear instructions, this recipe is accessible even for beginner cooks.
Cheesy goodness: The abundance of melted cheese takes this spaghetti dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Comfort food at its finest: Baked spaghetti is the epitome of comfort food, warming your soul with every bite.
Versatile: You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite ingredients, such as vegetables or cooked meat.
Leftovers are a dream: The flavors of this dish only get better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep.

Ingredients

To recreate this Cheesy Baked Spaghetti with Garlic Bread at home, you will need the following ingredients:

1 pound spaghetti
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own Cheesy Baked Spaghetti with Garlic Bread:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into small crumbles. Drain any excess grease.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce. Add a layer of cooked spaghetti on top, followed by a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers until all the spaghetti and sauce are used, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped basil.

Expert Tips for Success

To ensure your Cheesy Baked Spaghetti with Garlic Bread turns out perfectly every time, consider the following tips:

Use al dente spaghetti: Cook the pasta until it is still slightly firm to the bite, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Season the sauce: Taste the tomato sauce as you cook it and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
Add extra toppings: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients to the layers, such as sliced mushrooms or bell peppers.
Let it rest: Allow the baked spaghetti to cool for a few minutes before serving to prevent burning your tongue.
Freeze for later: You can freeze individual portions of the baked spaghetti for a quick and convenient meal on busy days.

Variations and Substitutions

While this Cheesy Baked Spaghetti with Garlic Bread recipe is already delicious as is, you can get creative and make it your own:

Vegetarian option: Omit the ground beef and substitute it with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant.
Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce for a kick of heat.
Meat lover’s delight: Enhance the meatiness by adding cooked Italian sausage or pepperoni slices between the layers.

Serving Suggestions

This Cheesy Baked Spaghetti with Garlic Bread is delightful on its own, but you can elevate your dining experience with these serving suggestions:

Serve with a side salad: Pair the baked spaghetti with a fresh green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Garlic bread on the side: Prepare some extra garlic bread to enjoy alongside the cheesy spaghetti for a complete and satisfying meal.
Wine pairing: This pasta dish pairs well with a glass of red wine, such as a Chianti or Sangiovese.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?

A: Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan cheese work beautifully in this recipe, you can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or provolone.

Q: How long can I store the leftovers?

A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before enjoying.

Final Thoughts

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with this Cheesy Baked Spaghetti with Garlic Bread recipe. The combination of tender pasta, flavorful tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese will have your taste buds singing with delight. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a cozy meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a cheesy and comforting culinary masterpiece!