Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

If you’re in the mood for comfort food that’s simple, hearty, and perfect for leftovers, this easy baked spaghetti is it. This family-friendly pasta casserole layers spaghetti noodles, hearty meat sauce, and lots of cheese—then bakes it all to golden perfection.

My friend Amy calls this the “easiest dish on the planet,” and it might just be the most delicious one too. Her mom started making it when she needed dinner to stay warm until her dad got home from work. The solution? Cover it in cheese and pop it in the oven. Instant spaghetti bake success.

Whether you’re using ground beef, Italian sausage, or a mix, the meaty sauce pairs perfectly with gooey mozzarella cheese and a little creamy layer of ricotta cheese or cottage cheese. You can even prep it ahead and bake when you're ready.

Why I Love This Easy Baked Spaghetti

• It's made with simple ingredients you probably already have.
• Feeds a crowd and makes excellent leftovers.
• Pairs perfectly with garlic bread and salad for a complete meal.
• A great way to use up extra homemade spaghetti sauce or store-bought sauce.
• Kid-friendly, budget-friendly, and seriously satisfying.

Ingredient Notes

• Spaghetti noodles – Regular or thin spaghetti work great. Cook until just al dente.
• Ground meat – You can also use Italian sausage for a flavor boost.
• Marinara sauce – You’ll need a full jar. Use a second jar if you like it extra saucy.
• Tomato sauce – Optional, but helps stretch the pasta sauce.
• Cottage cheese, cream cheese, or ricotta cheese – Adds a creamy layer inside the casserole.
• Mozzarella cheese – Shredded works best for layering and topping.
• Parmesan cheese – Sprinkle on top before baking or just before serving.
• Olive oil – For greasing the dish or brushing on bread.
• Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes – Mix into your sauce for extra flavor.
• Fresh basil – Optional garnish, but makes it feel fancy.

How to Make Easy Baked Spaghetti

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13 casserole dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
2. Cook spaghetti in salted water until halfway done—about 5-6 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, brown your ground beef or Italian sausage over medium-high heat. Drain grease.
4. Add marinara sauce, optional tomato sauce, and seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes) to the meat. Stir well.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce mixture. Toss to coat.
6. Layer half of the pasta mixture into the prepared dish. Spread with your choice of cottage cheese, cream cheese, or ricotta cheese.
7. Add the remaining pasta and top with shredded mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
8. Bake covered with foil for 45–60 minutes or uncovered for 30–40 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden.
9. Let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve with garlic bread for the full experience.

Quick Tips

• Cook the pasta just until al dente so it doesn’t overcook in the oven.
• Use two kinds of cheese for the best texture—mozzarella cheese for meltiness, parmesan cheese for flavor.
• Make it ahead of time and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
• Freeze leftovers wrapped in foil and plastic wrap for up to 2 months.
• Don’t skip letting it rest—it helps the layers set for easier slicing.
• Add spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for extra veggies.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make this without meat?
  Yes, just use your favorite marinara sauce and skip the meat.
• Can I use a different type of pasta?
  You can use penne, ziti, or whatever you have on hand—it’s still a great pasta bake.
• Do I have to use cottage cheese?
  No, you can substitute with ricotta cheese or even a little cream cheese for creaminess.
• How do I store leftovers?
  Let it cool, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Can I freeze baked spaghetti?
  Yes! Wrap the whole casserole in foil and freeze. Bake straight from frozen, adding 15–20 minutes to cook time.
• Is this the same as spaghetti pie?
  It’s similar, but spaghetti pie is usually baked in a round dish and cut into wedges.

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