Description

Craving something bubbling, cheesy, and undeniably comforting? This Authentic Italian-Style Spaghetti Bake is your next go-to dish. With layers of perfectly cooked spaghetti, savory meat sauce rich with Italian herbs, and melty mozzarella cheese, it hits all the right notes of a hearty family dinner. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, or meal prep—ideal for anyone searching for easy dinner recipes, Italian food ideas, or a comforting pasta bake. The aroma alone will transport you straight to a rustic kitchen in Italy, and the taste? Absolutely irresistible.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta Base:

1 lb (450g) spaghetti
Salted water, for boiling

Meat Sauce:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb (450g) ground beef (or half sausage, half beef)
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 tsp sugar (optional)
Salt & pepper to taste

Cheese Layers:

2 cups shredded mozzarella
1/2 cup grated Parmesan
1 cup ricotta cheese (optional)

Finishing Touch:

Fresh basil, for garnish
Extra Parmesan, for serving

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make meat sauce: Sauté onions in olive oil until soft. Add garlic, then beef. Cook until browned. Add tomatoes, paste, herbs, sugar, salt & pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Combine pasta and sauce: Toss cooked spaghetti with most of the meat sauce, saving 1 cup for layering.
Layer the dish: Spread a spoonful of sauce on the baking dish. Add half the pasta, half the mozzarella, some Parmesan. Repeat with remaining pasta, sauce, and cheese.
Bake covered for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with basil and extra Parmesan.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes