The Best Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

If there’s one comforting dish I keep coming back to, it’s The Best Spaghetti Casserole. Imagine the classic flavors of Italian spaghetti tangled up with a cheesy, savory topping and just the right touch of herbs, all baked until bubbly and golden. This recipe makes spaghetti night extra special, and it always gathers the family around the table—all eager to get the first, steamy scoop. Whether you’re serving a crowd or craving leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch, this is the one casserole that keeps everyone smiling!

Ingredients You’ll Need

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of The Best Spaghetti Casserole lies in its handful of staple ingredients that work together like magic. Each item brings something essential to the table, whether it’s flavor, creaminess, or that irresistible cheesy crust!

• Spaghetti: The classic base, giving you that familiar, twirlable satisfaction and soaking up all the flavors.
• Ground beef: Adds hearty, juicy richness and turns this casserole into a full meal.
• Onion: Aromatic and sweet, it forms the flavor backbone alongside the beef.
• Garlic: For a punch of bold, mouthwatering flavor that elevates the sauce.
• Marinara sauce: Cozy tomato goodness, infusing the casserole with a sweet-savory tang.
• Italian seasoning: Brings together basil, oregano, and other herbs for that authentic Italian vibe.
• Ricotta cheese: Creamy, slightly tangy, and melts perfectly into the noodles.
• Mozzarella cheese: Adds gooey stretch and that gorgeous, browned topping everyone loves.
• Parmesan cheese: For salty, nutty depth and an irresistible golden crust.
• Egg: Helps bind the casserole so every slice holds together beautifully.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer just right.
• Fresh parsley (optional): A pop of color and freshness sprinkled over the top.

How to Make The Best Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Start by boiling your spaghetti in well-salted water until it’s just al dente. You want it a tad firm to stand up to the creamy, hearty sauce without turning mushy in the oven. Drain and set aside, giving it a toss with a touch of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Savory Beef Sauce

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with onion over medium heat until the meat is cooked through and the onion is soft. Sprinkle in the garlic and sauté for about a minute, letting the aroma bloom. Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Let it all simmer together so the flavors marry and deepen.

Step 3: Mix the Cheesy Layer

In a mixing bowl, blend together the ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the Parmesan. This luscious layer adds creaminess and binds the casserole, making each bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Grease a large baking dish and start layering! Spread half the spaghetti on the bottom, then dollop and spread half the ricotta mixture, followed by half the beef sauce. Sprinkle with a handful of mozzarella, then repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining mozzarella and the rest of the Parmesan for a crust that bakes up perfectly golden.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop your assembled casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake uncovered for about 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and gently browned. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps every portion hold together and lets those flavors mingle just a bit longer.

How to Serve The Best Spaghetti Casserole

Garnishes

A finishing touch makes all the difference! Scatter chopped fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan over your bubbling hot dish. These little pops of color and flavor make The Best Spaghetti Casserole look as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This casserole is hearty, so keep sides light and fresh. A crisp Caesar salad or simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette pairs perfectly, cutting through the richness. Don’t forget a warm basket of garlic bread for swooping up every drop of sauce!

Creative Ways to Present

For family dinners, serve straight from the oven in the baking dish for a rustic, inviting look. Want to impress at a party? Cut into neat squares and plate individually, garnished with fresh basil or parsley. Or try baking in individual ramekins for personal-sized portions that everyone will love!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of The Best Spaghetti Casserole are a treat! Simply cool the casserole completely before transferring to airtight containers. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days, and flavors only get better as they mingle.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze The Best Spaghetti Casserole for later. Assemble as directed but stop before baking. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as usual.

Reheating

To bring leftovers back to their bubbling best, reheat in a 350°F oven covered with foil until heated through (about 20 minutes). For a quick lunch, the microwave works too—just be sure to cover the dish so it stays moist.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

While spaghetti is classic, you can swap in linguine, fettuccine, or even penne for a fun twist. Just be sure not to overcook any pasta, so it holds up in the casserole.

Is it possible to make The Best Spaghetti Casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap out the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or your favorite meatless crumbles. The rest of the process (and flavor!) stays the same.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Yes! Diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach blend right in with the beef sauce for a nutrient boost and a splash of color. Be sure to sauté harder veggies first so they’re tender by the end of baking.

How do I keep the casserole from getting watery?

Make sure to fully drain cooked spaghetti and simmer the beef sauce until thickened before assembling. This helps the casserole set up nicely without a runny texture.

Can I double the recipe for a larger group?

The Best Spaghetti Casserole is super easy to double! Just use a larger baking pan (or two pans) and plan for a few extra minutes in the oven. It’s the perfect make-ahead party dish.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving cozy, crowd-pleasing comfort food, give The Best Spaghetti Casserole a try. It’s a labor of love that always earns rave reviews around my table, and I know it’ll become a new favorite in your kitchen too—so dig in and enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite!

Print