Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Casserole

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Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Casserole

This Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Packed with hearty ground beef, creamy cheese layers, and rich tomato sauce, it’s everything you love about traditional spaghetti—elevated into a warm, baked pasta dish your whole family will devour. It’s easy to assemble, makes a generous portion, and is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12
Calories per Serving: 518 kcal

Ingredients

  • 16 oz spaghetti, broken in half
  • 2 (24 oz) jars of spaghetti sauce (see notes)
  • 1¼ lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 8 oz ricotta cheese
  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
  • 3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta:
    Boil the spaghetti to al dente according to package instructions. Drain, return to the pot, and mix with one jar of spaghetti sauce. Toss well to coat.
  2. Prepare the meat sauce:
    In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until browned. Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 more minute. Drain excess grease, stir in the second jar of spaghetti sauce, and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  3. Preheat the oven:
    Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
  4. Make the cheese filling:
    In a medium bowl, use a hand mixer on low to blend the cream cheese, ricotta, egg, sour cream, and Italian seasoning until smooth and creamy.
  5. Layer the casserole:
    • Spread half the spaghetti in the bottom of the baking dish.
    • Top with half of the meat sauce.
    • Spoon and spread the cheese mixture evenly over the meat sauce.
    • Sprinkle with half the mozzarella and half the parmesan.
    • Add the remaining spaghetti in an even layer.
    • Spread the rest of the meat sauce on top, then finish with the remaining mozzarella.
  6. Bake:
    Bake uncovered in the center of the oven for 45 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  7. Serve:
    Let the dish rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Recipe Tips & Variations

  • Want it saucier? Add a third jar of spaghetti sauce if you prefer extra moisture.
  • Add veggies: Mix in chopped spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
  • Make ahead: Assemble the dish up to 1 day ahead and refrigerate before baking.

Freezer Instructions

To Freeze: Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish. Let cool completely, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
To Bake from Frozen: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Bake at 350°F for 45–60 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 518
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Fat: 30g (Sat Fat: 15g)
  • Cholesterol: 109mg
  • Sodium: 712mg
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Calcium: 343mg
  • Iron: 3mg
  • Vitamin A: 945 IU
  • Vitamin C: 5mg

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