The aroma of baked spaghetti wafts through the kitchen, evoking memories of cozy family dinners and joyful gatherings. This dish, a comforting blend of spaghetti, savory ground meat, and rich marinara sauce topped with melty cheeses, takes just about an hour to prepare and bake. It’s a foolproof recipe that works because of its layered flavors and satisfying textures.
Fazoli’s Baked Spaghetti is perfect for families and busy weeknights when you crave something hearty and delicious. It’s also great for meal prepping, as it can be made in advance and stored for quick dinners throughout the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The cheesy, bubbly topping provides an irresistible crunch.
- It’s an easy one-dish meal that minimizes cleanup.
- The combination of flavors creates a satisfying bite every time.
- It’s versatile enough to accommodate various meat or vegetarian options.
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients for a delicious baked spaghetti.
For the Pasta
- 8 oz spaghetti
For the Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef or sausage
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
For the Topping
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
Note: Use turkey or plant-based sausage for a lighter option.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Ground turkey for ground beef
- Marinara sauce for any pasta sauce
- Omit cheese for a dairy-free version
- Spaghetti can be swapped for any pasta type
How to Make It
Follow these steps for a tasty baked spaghetti dish.
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your baked spaghetti cooks evenly.
Cook Spaghetti
Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain.
Sauté Vegetables
Sauté onion and garlic in a skillet over medium heat until translucent.
Brown Meat
Add ground beef or sausage into the skillet and cook until browned.
Mix Sauce
Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all flavors.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Combine the cooked spaghetti with the sauce mixture, ensuring every piece is coated.
Transfer to Baking Dish
Transfer the spaghetti mixture to a baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure even cooking.
Add Cheese
Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top before placing the dish in the oven.
Bake
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Cool and Serve
Let cool slightly before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to serve.
How to Store It
Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: yes, freezes well for up to 3 months.
Reheat: microwave for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
- Use freshly grated cheese for better melting.
- Don’t overcook the spaghetti; it should be al dente.
- Let the dish sit after baking for easier serving.
- Experiment with different meats or veggie versions for variety.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Pair with a fresh side salad for added crunch.
- Great for potlucks or family gatherings.
