What a knockout weeknight dinner this Baked Spaghetti Casserole is! There are some dishes which are just perfect as they are – like spaghetti bolognese right? But what happens if you take those dishes, add lots of extra cheese and bake them so they get a gorgeous crispy topping and deliciously cooked texture? Well if you make this recipe, you’ll find out!
I guess this is a cross between a spag bol and lasagne – tender pasta, browned beef cooked down with tomatoes and onions, creamy sauce and melting cheese over the top. For a more authentic Italian twist, you can swap out the cottage cheese for ricotta. It’s an amazing recipe and makes enough to satisfy a big and happy crowd!
To make the Baked Spaghetti Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a large baking dish (around 3 quart).
Cook spaghetti according to packet instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Place a large skillet over a medium heat and add the oil. Add the beef and onion and cook, stirring regularly, until the meat is browned through and the onions are soft. Drain off the excess liquid.
Add the sauce and salt to the skillet and stir together. Remove from the heat.
Beat the eggs, butter, and cheese together in a large bowl.
Add the spaghetti to the cheese mixture and toss until fully coated.
Tip half of the spaghetti into the baking dish. Spread half of the meat sauce on top and then sprinkle the cottage cheese and mozzarella on top of that. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
Place a lid on the dish or cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 40 minutes. Remove from the oven and take off the lid or foil. Bake for a further 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Sprinkle with the chopped basil to serve.
Serve up this Baked Spaghetti Casserole with buttery garlic bread and a crisp green salad, for the perfect evening meal! How do you find my combination of classic pasta recipes? Give me your honest opinion below, or tag your casserole pics with #cookmerecipes so I can see how you got on!
Jeff, :) we will make this recipe and we’ll find out! I promise
