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Baked spaghetti with marinara and cheese is an irresistible comfort food that combines the satisfying chew of pasta with the rich flavors of marinara sauce and the gooey goodness of melted cheese. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, this dish is not only simple to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser that the whole family will adore.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This baked spaghetti dish is a harmony of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for seconds. It’s comforting, cheesy, and filled with classic Italian flavors. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder that makes cleanup a breeze.
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- Effortless Preparation: Quick to assemble and easy to bake.
- Cheesy Goodness: Layers of melted cheese for that perfect pull.
- Family-Friendly: A dish that kids and adults both love.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite ingredients.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How to Make Baked Spaghetti with Marinara and Cheese
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, marinara sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until the pasta is well coated.
- Transfer half of the spaghetti mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Add the remaining spaghetti mixture on top, followed by the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Tips for the Best Results
- For extra flavor, sauté some diced onions and bell peppers before mixing with the spaghetti.
- Use a mix of cheeses like provolone or fontina for different flavor profiles.
- If you prefer a crispy top, broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.
Easy Variations
- Add cooked ground beef or turkey for a heartier meal.
- Mix in sautéed vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition.
- Swap marinara for Alfredo sauce for a creamy twist.
What to Serve With It
- A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks for a classic pairing.
- Steamed vegetables or roasted asparagus for a balanced meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield/Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, marinara sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until the pasta is well coated.
- Transfer half of the spaghetti mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Add the remaining spaghetti mixture on top, followed by the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
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Notes: For extra flavor, consider adding sautéed vegetables or cooked meat to the spaghetti mixture before baking.
