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The assembly of your baked spaghetti is just as crucial as the ingredients themselves. Proper layering not only enhances the flavor distribution but also elevates the visual appeal of your dish. Each layer of spaghetti, sauce, and cheese should complement the others, ensuring that every bite is a delicious combination of textures and tastes.

Baked Spaghetti Family Crowd-Pleaser

Discover the joy of making Baked Spaghetti Extravaganza, a comforting dish that combines savory flavors and hearty textures. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, turning a classic into a memorable meal. With layers of ground meat, tangy tomato sauce, and a blend of creamy cheeses, each bite is a delightful experience. Whether you're hosting or meal prepping, this baked spaghetti will surely bring warmth and nostalgia to any occasion.
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Ingredients
  

12 oz spaghetti

1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage

1 small onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper, diced (any color)

28 oz can crushed tomatoes

15 oz can tomato sauce

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 large egg

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Cook Spaghetti: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Prepare Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

        Add Tomatoes: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

          Mix Ricotta Filling: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until smooth.

            Assemble Dish: In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the cooked spaghetti over the sauce, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, and then half of the remaining meat sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti, ricotta mixture, and meat sauce.

              Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top layer.

                Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                  Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added flavor and color.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                      20 minutes | 1 hour | 8 servings