This easy, cheesy spaghetti bake is a weeknight hero and potluck favorite! Packed with savory beef, zesty marinara, and a gooey layer of mozzarella and Parmesan, it’s comfort food done right. Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers the next day—just bake, serve, and watch it disappear!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Feeds a crowd with ease
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Budget-friendly and freezer-friendly
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Perfect balance of savory meat, herbs, and melty cheese
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Great for meal prep or make-ahead dinners
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Classic flavor with minimal prep time
Ingredients Breakdown
Sauce & Protein:
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1 lb ground beef – Adds rich, savory flavor and makes the dish filling.
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1 large onion, chopped – Provides sweetness and depth to the sauce.
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2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle kick.
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24 oz marinara sauce – The main tomato base that ties everything together.
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Adds texture and fresh tomato flavor.
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1 tsp dried oregano & 1 tsp dried basil – Classic Italian herbs for depth and aroma.
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Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning and balance.
Pasta & Cheese:
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1 lb spaghetti – Traditional pasta choice that holds the sauce well.
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts into a gooey, bubbly topping.
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds salty, nutty flavor and a golden finish.
Garnish (optional):
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Fresh parsley, chopped – Adds color and a fresh herbal touch before serving.
Tips and Tricks
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Make ahead: Assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate. Just bake when ready.
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Add veggies: Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini can be added to the sauce.
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Double batch: Great for freezing—just divide into two pans and freeze one for later.
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Low-carb tip: Substitute spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles for a lighter version.
Variations and Customizations
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Cheesy Upgrade: Mix some ricotta or cottage cheese into the pasta before baking.
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Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
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Vegetarian Version: Skip the ground beef and load up with vegetables and beans.
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Meat Lovers: Add ground Italian sausage or pepperoni slices for extra flavor.
What to Serve With It
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Garlic bread or breadsticks
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Caesar salad or mixed greens
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Roasted vegetables
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A glass of red sweet tea
Storage and Reheating
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Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
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Reheat: Microwave single portions or bake at 350°F until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A: Yes, penne, rotini, or ziti all work great in place of spaghetti.
Q: Can this be made vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Just omit the meat and add extra vegetables or a plant-based meat substitute.
Q: What kind of marinara sauce works best?
A: Choose a brand with no added sugar and bold tomato flavor, or make your own for best results.