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In the world of comfort food, few dishes can rival the warmth and satisfaction of a baked spaghetti casserole. This Cheesy Delight Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a flavorful blend of al dente spaghetti, savory meat, and creamy cheeses, making it the perfect dish for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. The dish is not only hearty and filling but also incredibly versatile, allowing for various adaptations based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions.

Baked Spaghetti Casserole with Three Cheeses

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Cheesy Delight Baked Spaghetti Casserole! This family-favorite dish combines al dente spaghetti, savory meat, and a creamy cheese blend for a cozy meal. Perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners, it's easy to adapt for various tastes and dietary needs. Follow simple steps to create layers of flavor that will make your kitchen smell amazing. Serve with a salad or garlic bread for a delightful dining experience. Enjoy!

Ingredients
  

12 oz spaghetti

1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 large egg

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a large baking dish (9x13 inches works well).

    Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Brown the meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef (or sausage), diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

        Combine with sauce: Add the marinara sauce to the skillet, stirring to combine with the meat. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat.

          Prepare cheese mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, 1/2 cup of the mozzarella, 1/2 cup of the Parmesan, oregano, basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.

            Layer the casserole: In the prepared baking dish, spread half of the cooked spaghetti evenly on the bottom. Next, spread half of the meat sauce over the spaghetti. Dollop half of the ricotta mixture on top, and sprinkle with 1/4 cup of mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti, meat sauce, ricotta mixture, and the remaining cheeses.

              Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                Serve: Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!

                  Prep Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 1 hr | Servings: 8