Mama’s Cheesy Baked Spaghetti: 1 Hug Dish

Oh, you are going to LOVE this Mama’s Cheesy Baked Spaghetti! Seriously, it’s the ultimate hug in a dish. If you’re looking for a recipe that screams comfort food and brings everyone to the table, this is it. It’s that classic, go-to baked spaghetti that just tastes like home, you know? My mom used to make this for us after soccer games, and the smell alone would make us sprint inside. It’s not fancy, but it’s ridiculously delicious and so easy to throw together, even on a crazy weeknight. Trust me, this recipe is a keeper!

Why You’ll Love This Mama’s Cheesy Baked Spaghetti

Honestly, what’s not to love about this dish? It’s basically a warm, cheesy hug on a plate! Here’s why it’s a total winner:

• So Easy to Make: Seriously, even if you’re new to the kitchen, you can totally nail this. The steps are super straightforward, and the prep time is surprisingly quick!
• Pure Comfort Food Bliss: This is the kind of meal that just makes everything feel better. Think gooey cheese, hearty sauce, and tender pasta – pure happiness!
• Family Favorite Guaranteed: Kids and adults alike go crazy for this. It’s the perfect way to gather everyone around the table for a delicious, hassle-free meal.

Quick and Easy Preparation

You won’t spend hours in the kitchen with this recipe, I promise! With just about 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this cheesy spaghetti ready to go into the oven. It’s the perfect solution for those busy nights when you still want a home-cooked meal without all the fuss.

Unbeatable Comfort Food

There’s something about baked spaghetti that just screams comfort. The way the cheese melts and gets all bubbly, the rich tomato sauce clinging to every strand of pasta… it’s pure nostalgia in every bite. It’s hearty, satisfying, and exactly what you crave when you need a little pick-me-up.

Perfect for Family Dinners

This dish is a lifesaver when you need to feed a crowd! It’s naturally kid-friendly, and the generous portions mean there’s enough to go around. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together, making those family dinners extra special and a whole lot easier.

Gathering Your Ingredients for Mama’s Cheesy Baked Spaghetti

Alright, let’s get down to business! To make this amazing Mama’s Cheesy Baked Spaghetti, you’ll need a few simple things you probably already have in your pantry or fridge. It’s all about those classic, hearty flavors.

Essential Pasta and Meat

First up, we need our backbone! Grab yourself 1 pound of spaghetti – your favorite kind will do. For that savory depth, we’ll use 1 pound of ground beef. You can use any fat percentage you like, but I usually go for an 80/20 because it adds just enough flavor without being too greasy.

Flavorful Sauce Components

Now for the heart of the sauce! You’ll need a big can, 1 (28 ounce) can of crushed tomatoes, for that rich, tomatoey base. We’ll also add a smaller can, 1 (15 ounce) can of tomato sauce, to make it extra saucy. To bring in those classic Italian vibes, we’ll use 2 teaspoons of dried oregano and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. And of course, a little seasoning goes a long way: 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.

Cheesy Topping Ingredients

This is where the magic happens! For that irresistible cheesy pull, we need 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. And for a little salty kick that really makes it sing, we’ll add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Don’t skimp on the cheese, it’s the best part!

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mama’s Cheesy Baked Spaghetti

Alright, let’s get this deliciousness in motion! Making Mama’s Cheesy Baked Spaghetti is totally doable, and honestly, it’s pretty fun. Just follow these steps and you’ll have a bubbling, cheesy masterpiece in no time.

Preparing the Pasta and Sauce Base

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, get a big pot of water boiling for your spaghetti. Cook the 1 pound of spaghetti according to the package directions, but here’s the trick: cook it just until it’s *al dente*. You know, still got a little bite to it, because it’s going to keep cooking in the oven. Drain it well and set it aside.

Now, grab a big skillet. We’re going to brown the 1 pound of ground beef in there with the chopped onion. Just cook it until the beef is no longer pink and the onion looks nice and tender. Drain off any extra grease – we want flavor, not a grease slick! Then, toss in the minced garlic and let it get fragrant for about a minute. Don’t let it burn!

Time to build that sauce! Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Give it all a good stir, bring it to a simmer, and let it bubble away gently for about 10 minutes. This lets all those flavors get to know each other. Finally, stir in that grated Parmesan cheese until it’s all mixed in. Yum!

Assembling Your Mama’s Cheesy Baked Spaghetti

Okay, time to layer up the goodness! Grab your 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread about half of the cooked spaghetti evenly on the bottom. Then, spoon about half of that delicious meat sauce right over the spaghetti. Make sure you get it all over! Now, sprinkle half of your shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.

Ready for round two? Repeat those layers! Put the rest of the spaghetti on top of the first cheesy layer, then spread the remaining meat sauce over that. Finish it all off with the rest of that glorious mozzarella cheese. Make sure it’s all covered so you get that perfect cheesy crust.

Baking and Resting for Perfection

Now for the best part! Cover your baking dish tightly with foil. This traps the steam and helps everything cook through beautifully. Pop it into that preheated oven for 20 minutes.

After 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil. You don’t want to burn yourself! Let it bake uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes. You’re looking for that cheese to be all melted, bubbly, and maybe even a little golden brown around the edges. It’s going to smell amazing!

Once it’s out of the oven, resist the urge to dive right in. Let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This is super important! It lets the layers settle and makes it so much easier to serve without it falling apart. Trust me on this one!

Tips for the Best Mama’s Cheesy Baked Spaghetti

You want your Mama’s Cheesy Baked Spaghetti to be absolutely perfect every time, right? Well, I’ve got a few little tricks up my sleeve that really make a difference. It’s all about those little details!

Ingredient Quality Matters

Okay, so I know we’re using simple ingredients here, but even simple things can be elevated! If you can swing it, using good quality crushed tomatoes makes a noticeable difference in the sauce’s depth. And don’t even get me started on fresh garlic – it’s SO much better than garlic powder in this dish. Trust me on this one!

Achieving Perfect Pasta Texture

This is a biggie! Remember how I said to cook the spaghetti *al dente*? That’s crucial! It’s going to bake in that delicious sauce for a good chunk of time, so if you overcook it to begin with, you’ll end up with mushy noodles. Just a little bite left in them is exactly what you want before it goes into the oven. It ensures every forkful is just right!

Flavor Boosters

Want to give your spaghetti an extra little kick? I sometimes add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while it’s simmering. It just gives it a lovely warmth without making it super spicy. You could also throw in some finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms with the onions if you’re feeling adventurous. It all just adds another layer of deliciousness!

Variations for Your Mama’s Cheesy Baked Spaghetti

One of the best things about this Mama’s Cheesy Baked Spaghetti is how easy it is to make it your own! Don’t be afraid to play around and make it exactly how you and your family love it. It’s super forgiving!

Adding Extra Vegetables

Want to sneak in some more goodness? You totally can! Try sautéing some chopped bell peppers (any color works!) or mushrooms right along with the onions and ground beef. You could even add some finely diced zucchini or a can of drained black olives to the sauce. It all just adds extra flavor and texture!

Spice Level Adjustments

If you like a little heat, this dish is your friend! For a gentle warmth, just add a pinch or two of red pepper flakes to the sauce when it’s simmering. If you want it a bit spicier, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to individual servings. For a milder version, just skip the pepper flakes altogether!

Serving Suggestions for Mama’s Cheesy Baked Spaghetti

This Mama’s Cheesy Baked Spaghetti is pretty hearty on its own, but it pairs beautifully with some simple sides that just round out the meal perfectly. You want things that complement the richness without being too heavy.

Complementary Side Dishes

A big, fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette is absolutely perfect. The crisp greens and tangy dressing cut through all that cheesy goodness. Also, some warm, crusty garlic bread or a simple loaf of Italian bread for dipping into any extra sauce is always a huge hit. And if you want something green, some steamed or roasted broccoli or green beans are fantastic too. Easy peasy!

Storing and Reheating Leftover Mama’s Cheesy Baked Spaghetti

Don’t you hate when you have amazing baked spaghetti leftovers and you don’t know what to do with them? Don’t worry, this dish reheats like a dream! It’s honestly almost as good the next day. Here’s how to keep it tasting fantastic.

Proper Storage Guidelines

Once your Mama’s Cheesy Baked Spaghetti has cooled down a bit, cover it really well. You can use plastic wrap directly over the dish, or transfer smaller portions into airtight containers. Pop it into the refrigerator, and it should stay good for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure it’s sealed up tight to keep it fresh!

Reheating Methods

The best way to reheat this is in the oven. Cover the dish with foil again and pop it into a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s heated through. If you’re in a super hurry, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it, or the pasta can get a bit chewy. Just heat it in short bursts until it’s warm.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mama’s Cheesy Baked Spaghetti

Got questions about this amazing dish? I’ve got you covered! This Mama’s Cheesy Baked Spaghetti is pretty straightforward, but here are a few things people often ask.

Can I make Mama’s Cheesy Baked Spaghetti ahead of time?

Oh, absolutely! This is one of those recipes that’s perfect for making ahead. You can assemble the entire thing – spaghetti, sauce, cheese, all layered up – cover it tightly, and pop it in the fridge. Just make sure it’s well-sealed. When you’re ready to bake, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the covered baking time since it’ll be starting from cold. It’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting!

What kind of pasta is best for Mama’s Cheesy Baked Spaghetti?

While the recipe calls for spaghetti, and it’s fantastic that way, you can totally use other pasta shapes! Heartier shapes like penne, rotini, or rigatoni hold up really well in baked dishes and catch all that yummy sauce. Just make sure you cook whatever pasta you choose to *al dente* before you layer it. That’s the key to avoiding mushy noodles after baking!

How can I make Mama’s Cheesy Baked Spaghetti vegetarian?

Making this vegetarian is super simple! Just skip the ground beef altogether. You can easily replace it with sautéed veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, or even a can of drained lentils or chickpeas mixed into the sauce. You’ll still get all that amazing cheesy, saucy goodness, just without the meat. It’s delicious either way!

Estimated Nutritional Information for Mama’s Cheesy Baked Spaghetti

Just a heads-up, these numbers are estimates and can change depending on the exact ingredients you use, especially the type of beef and cheese! But generally, a serving of this delicious Mama’s Cheesy Baked Spaghetti will give you around 450 calories, about 20g of fat, a solid 30g of protein, and roughly 40g of carbohydrates. It’s a hearty meal that really satisfies!

Print