If you are craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together hearty flavors and gooey cheese, look no further than this Baked Spaghetti Casserole with Ground Beef and Mozzarella Recipe. Offering tender spaghetti coated in rich tomato sauce, savory ground beef, and a luscious layer of melted mozzarella, this casserole is an unbeatable combination of texture, taste, and warmth that feels like a big, cozy hug on a plate. Whether for a family dinner or a meal that impresses guests, this recipe delivers all the satisfaction of a classic Italian-American favorite with a simple, reliable method.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors, colors, and textures. From the robust ground beef to the creamy mozzarella, knowing your ingredients sets you up for a deliciously successful baked spaghetti casserole.
- 16 oz spaghetti: Choosing al dente pasta is key so it holds up perfectly after baking without becoming mushy.
- 2 pounds ground beef: Provides hearty protein and a rich, meaty base.
- 1 diced onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
- 3 cloves minced garlic: Gives a fragrant aroma and bold undertone to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings authentic Italian flair.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the savory notes of the dish.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
- 32 ounces jar pasta sauce: The tomato base that coats every strand of spaghetti with rich flavor.
- 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes: Provides texture and a burst of freshness inside the sauce.
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese: Boosts umami flavor with its salty, nutty profile.
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds a bright, herbaceous finish and color contrast.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates that irresistible gooey, golden cheese topping when baked.
How to Make Baked Spaghetti Casserole with Ground Beef and Mozzarella Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Casserole Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375℉ to ensure it’s hot and ready when your casserole is assembled. Lightly coat a casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray, which makes clean-up easier and prevents sticking without overpowering flavors.
Step 2: Sear the Ground Beef with Aromatics
Warm a 12-inch non-stick pan over medium high heat and add your ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic along with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Browning the beef until just cooked through develops amazing depth and flavor. Drain excess fat if needed to avoid a greasy casserole.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium low and pour in the jarred pasta sauce and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes. This step melds all the flavors beautifully and thickens the sauce slightly for clinging onto the pasta.
Step 4: Mix Pasta and Sauce
In your prepared casserole dish, combine the cooked spaghetti with the savory beef sauce. Add the grated parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, then use tongs to toss until every noodle is evenly coated with that luscious sauce. This ensures each bite is bursting with flavor.
Step 5: Top with Mozzarella and Bake
Sprinkle a cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the spaghetti mixture. Slide your dish into the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden at the edges — pure comfort food magic.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole cool and set for about 5 minutes after baking. This resting time helps it hold together and makes it easier to cut into large, satisfying squares. Now, it’s time to dig in and enjoy the masterpiece you’ve created!
How to Serve Baked Spaghetti Casserole with Ground Beef and Mozzarella Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes elevate this baked spaghetti casserole to something really special. A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil adds bright color and a herbaceous note, while an extra dusting of parmesan cheese just before serving adds salty richness that melts on the tongue.
Side Dishes
This hearty casserole is perfect as a main course, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables balances the richness beautifully. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also fantastic choices that soak up any remaining sauce and add a crunchy, buttery contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, try serving individual portions in ramekins or mini casserole dishes. Layered in this way, each person gets a personal cheesy baked spaghetti experience. Alternatively, adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes offers a tasty twist for adventurous eaters.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover baked spaghetti casserole to airtight containers and refrigerate. It stays fresh for up to 3 days, making it a great option for easy weeknight meals or packed lunches.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully. Place servings in freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in foil and store for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake again to revive all the cheesy goodness.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered with foil in a 350℉ oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual portions on medium power. Adding a sprinkle of extra mozzarella before heating helps recreate that freshly-baked melt every time.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this casserole?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works beautifully here, feel free to try penne, rigatoni, or any short pasta you have on hand. Just adjust cooking time so the pasta remains al dente before baking.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the ground beef with plant-based meat crumbles or sautéed mushrooms for a flavorful vegetarian version of this baked spaghetti casserole.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce while it simmers, or top with sliced fresh chili peppers before baking to give it a nice kick without overpowering the other flavors.
What’s the best way to prevent the casserole from drying out?
Make sure your sauce is generously coating the pasta and consider covering the casserole loosely with foil during the first 10 minutes of baking to retain moisture before letting the cheese brown uncovered.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake it later?
Definitely! Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Spaghetti Casserole with Ground Beef and Mozzarella Recipe is the kind of dish that warms your soul and fills your home with mouthwatering aromas. It’s simple to make, hard to resist, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or enjoying leftovers with a fresh perspective. I promise once you try it, it will become one of those beloved go-to meals you want to make again and again. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a comforting Italian classic that’s all about good food and good company.
