Baked Spaghetti with Cheese

This baked spaghetti is the perfect weeknight dinner when you want something comforting but still simple to make. It brings together classic flavors in a layered dish that feels special without requiring a ton of time or ingredients. I often throw this together when I need a crowd-pleaser that reheats well for leftovers.

From the first time I made this, it became a regular in my rotation because it is so forgiving and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces spaghetti: use a good quality durum wheat pasta for firm texture that holds up to baking
• 1 pound ground beef: lean ground beef minimizes excess grease but still packs flavor
• 24 ounces marinara sauce: choose a sauce with herbs for a well-rounded taste or use homemade for extra depth
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: adds creaminess and balances the savory meat sauce, best if fresh and smooth
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully creating a gooey top layer, look for whole milk mozzarella
• Half a cup grated Parmesan cheese: adds sharpness and enhances the baked crust, freshly grated if possible
• Half a teaspoon salt and pepper: simple seasonings to boost all flavors
• Italian seasoning: a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme ties everything together with classic Italian notes

Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius so it’s ready to bake once the dish is assembled.

Cook Spaghetti:

Boil a large pot of salted water and add the spaghetti. Cook until al dente, which means tender but still firm to the bite. Drain well.

Brown The Meat:

Heat a skillet over medium flame. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until no longer pink and slightly browned for better flavor. Drain excess fat.

Simmer With Sauce:

Return beef to the skillet and pour in marinara sauce. Stir and let it simmer gently so the flavors meld, about five minutes.

Prepare Ricotta Mix:

In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with salt and pepper. Mixing these now ensures the ricotta will be evenly seasoned.

Layer The Dish:

In a baking dish, spread half of the cooked spaghetti evenly. Spoon half the meat sauce on top, then add dollops of the ricotta mixture. Repeat layering with remaining spaghetti, meat sauce, and ricotta.

Add Cheese Topping:

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the layered bake, then follow with grated Parmesan cheese to get that nice golden crust.

Bake Covered:

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 25 minutes to heat through and meld flavors.

Finish Baking Uncovered:

Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

The ricotta cheese is my favorite part because it adds unexpected creaminess that balances the acid of the marinara. This dish reminds me of Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s house where everyone gathered around the table enjoying hearty Italian home cooking.

Storage tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 minutes or until warmed through to keep the cheese melty.

Ingredient swaps

Ground turkey or Italian sausage work well instead of beef if you want a different flavor or leaner option. You can substitute cottage cheese for ricotta in a pinch but the texture will be less creamy.

Serving ideas

Serve with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a classic Italian inspired meal. A drizzle of good olive oil or fresh basil on top before serving adds a fresh pop.

This baked spaghetti is perfect for a comforting family meal and easily adaptable to your taste preferences.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ How do I prevent the spaghetti from sticking together before baking?

Cook spaghetti until just al dente, then drain and toss with a small amount of olive oil to keep strands separate before layering.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, cottage cheese can be substituted for ricotta for a similar creamy texture, though ricotta provides a richer flavor.

→ What is the best way to layer the ingredients?

Start with half the spaghetti, spread half the meat sauce, add dollops of the ricotta mixture, then repeat and finish with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

→ Should I cover the dish while baking?

Covering with foil during the first 25 minutes traps moisture, ensuring the dish stays tender. Remove foil halfway to let cheese brown.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, assemble layers in advance and refrigerate; bake just before serving to maintain fresh flavors and texture.