Aunt Maria’s Spaghetti Casserole, perfect for family dinners!
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the spaghetti:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. - Prepare the sauce:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat. - Season and combine:
Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Make the cheese mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, ½ cup mozzarella, ¼ cup Parmesan, and the egg. Stir until well combined. - Assemble the casserole:
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer as follows:- Spread a small amount of meat sauce on the bottom.
- Add half of the cooked spaghetti.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the spaghetti.
- Pour half of the meat sauce over the cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Bake:
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. - Serve:
Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips:
- Make ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
- Customize: Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra veggies.
- Leftovers: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
This casserole is pure comfort food, packed with cheesy goodness and hearty flavors—just like Aunt Maria would make! 🍝