Baked Spaghetti with Melted Cheese on Top

Introduction:

Baked Spaghetti with Melted Cheese on Top is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the familiar flavors of classic spaghetti with a cheesy, baked twist. This dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or anytime you’re craving a warm, cheesy, and satisfying meal. With a rich tomato sauce, savory meat (optional), and gooey melted cheese, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The baking process creates a delicious golden crust on top, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture to every bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound spaghetti
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to cut the acidity of the tomatoes)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil or non-stick spray.
2. Cook the Spaghetti:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the spaghetti and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
   While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once the meat is browned, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
4. Make the Tomato Sauce:
   Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using) to the skillet. Stir everything together and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Assemble the Dish:
   In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked spaghetti and tomato sauce. Mix everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.
6. Top with Cheese:
   Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the spaghetti. Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella.
7. Bake:
   Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden top, you can broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, keeping an eye on it so the cheese doesn’t burn.
8. Serve:
   Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the dish from the oven. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.

Benefits:

• Spaghetti: A great source of carbohydrates, providing energy for your body. Whole wheat pasta can be used for added fiber.
• Ground Beef or Turkey: High in protein, ground meat provides essential nutrients for muscle repair and growth. Turkey is a leaner option for those looking to reduce fat intake.
• Tomato Sauce: Rich in vitamins A and C, tomatoes are packed with antioxidants like lycopene, which supports heart health.
• Cheese: Mozzarella and Parmesan cheese provide calcium, protein, and healthy fats, making this dish a good source of nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion:

Baked Spaghetti with Melted Cheese on Top is the perfect dish for any pasta lover. With its gooey cheese, savory tomato sauce, and tender spaghetti, this recipe provides a delicious and satisfying meal. The added benefit of baking it creates a crispy, golden cheese crust on top that adds texture and flavor to the dish. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or at a gathering, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends. It’s simple, comforting, and oh-so-delicious!

Lovers of Cheesy Pasta:

If you’re someone who loves cheesy, baked pasta dishes, then this Baked Spaghetti with Melted Cheese on Top will quickly become one of your favorite recipes. The combination of flavorful sauce, tender pasta, and melted cheese is simply irresistible. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a meal to share with friends!

Method Variations:

• Make it Vegetarian: Omit the ground beef and replace it with sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
• Add Herbs: For extra flavor, add fresh or dried herbs such as basil, oregano, or thyme directly to the sauce before baking.
• Use a Different Cheese: For a more indulgent version, try using provolone or fontina cheese in place of mozzarella for a different flavor.

Nutritional Information:

• Spaghetti: A great source of energy-boosting carbohydrates, spaghetti can be a part of a balanced diet. Whole wheat spaghetti offers more fiber and nutrients.
• Ground Beef or Turkey: Rich in protein, iron, and B vitamins, making it an excellent choice for muscle building and overall health.
• Tomato Sauce: Packed with antioxidants like lycopene, which help protect against heart disease and improve skin health.
• Cheese: Provides calcium, protein, and fats essential for bone health and energy. Opting for reduced-fat cheese can lower the calorie count if desired.

Enjoy the rich, cheesy, and savory flavors of Baked Spaghetti with Melted Cheese on Top with your loved ones. It’s an easy, comforting dish that everyone will love!