Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Craving a comforting, hearty dish that brings family and friends together? Look no further than this Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole recipe! Packed with rich, savory flavors and layered with melted cheese, it's the perfect meal to satisfy everyone at the dinner table. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting out, this dish is easy to make and offers flexibility in ingredients. Read on to learn how to cook this delicious casserole and bring a taste of the South to your kitchen!

What is Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole?

Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a beloved comfort dish that marries the best of Italian spaghetti and Southern-style cooking. It features a hearty meat sauce, tender spaghetti, creamy cheeses, and sometimes additional vegetables, all baked into a bubbling, flavorful casserole. What sets it apart from traditional spaghetti recipes is the emphasis on baking, which creates a beautifully browned top layer of melted cheese while sealing in all the rich flavors below. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy weeknight meal.

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Ingredients List for Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole

To prepare this mouthwatering Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (or a mix of both)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (24 oz) marinara or spaghetti sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Spaghetti:

• 12 oz spaghetti (uncooked)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt for boiling water

For the Cheese Layers:

• 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg (optional, to bind the ricotta layer)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Substitutions and Variations

One of the beauties of Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole is how versatile it can be. If you're missing an ingredient or want to make a healthier version, here are some substitutions and variations to consider:

• Meat Substitutions: You can easily swap the ground beef or Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You could also go meatless by using plant-based crumbles or simply adding more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini.
• Cheese Variations: If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese works perfectly fine. You can also mix in other cheeses like cheddar or provolone for an extra cheesy bite.
• Gluten-Free Option: Replace regular spaghetti with a gluten-free variety like brown rice or quinoa pasta. Make sure to check the sauce ingredients as well for gluten-containing additives.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat entirely and bulk up the sauce with more veggies. Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or eggplant can add great depth to the casserole.
• Spice It Up: Add a little extra heat with more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the meat sauce.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s break down how to make this Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole step by step, so you can follow along and ensure it turns out perfectly.

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until just al dente (firm to the bite). You want the pasta slightly undercooked, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the spaghetti and toss with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease. Add the diced onions and garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent. Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta (or cottage cheese), 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, and the egg if using. Mix until everything is well combined. This will be your creamy cheese layer.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom of the dish. Add half of the cooked spaghetti on top of the sauce. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the spaghetti, followed by half of the remaining meat sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti, cheese mixture, and meat sauce. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Ensure the spaghetti is just al dente. Overcooking the pasta will lead to a mushy texture once the casserole is baked.
• Skipping the Resting Time: Allowing the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving helps it set, making it easier to slice and serve.
• Not Draining the Meat Properly: Failing to drain the excess fat from the meat can result in a greasy casserole, so don’t skip this step.
• Forgetting the Layering: Take care to layer the ingredients properly, as this ensures every bite has a perfect balance of spaghetti, sauce, and cheese.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Serving and presentation are key to making your Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole look as good as it tastes. Here are some tips to enhance both the flavor and appearance of your dish:

How to Serve Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Serve the casserole in generous, square slices. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan on top just before serving adds a nice pop of color and flavor.

Presentation Ideas for Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole

To make the dish look extra appetizing, consider baking it in a rustic, oven-safe dish that can go directly from the oven to the table. Garnish the casserole with fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving to give it a fresh, vibrant finish.

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Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead Option: This casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, just pop it in the oven.
• Freezing: Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole freezes well. After assembling the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as instructed.
• Reheating Leftovers: Reheat leftover slices in the microwave or oven. Cover with foil if reheating in the oven to keep the cheese from drying out.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use different types of pasta for this casserole?
A: Yes, you can! While spaghetti is traditional, other types of pasta like penne, rigatoni, or even rotini can work well.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat in the microwave or oven.

Q: Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Simply skip the meat and load up on vegetables for a hearty, flavorful vegetarian version.

Q: Is it necessary to use the egg in the cheese mixture?
A: The egg helps to bind the cheese layer, but if you prefer not to use it, the casserole will still turn out delicious without it.

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Conclusion

Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, blending Italian flavors with Southern heartiness in one delicious, cheesy dish. Whether you’re making it for a large family gathering, a weeknight dinner, or freezing it for later, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. With its versatile ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll be able to customize it to suit your taste and dietary preferences. So, gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and get ready to enjoy a slice of Southern hospitality straight from your oven!

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