Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Are you craving a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy night at home? Look no further than Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole! This mouthwatering recipe blends spaghetti with rich, savory meats, cheese, and a flavorful sauce, all baked to golden perfection. Keep reading to discover how to make this Southern classic, along with helpful tips, substitutions, and variations. Let’s dive into the ultimate comfort food recipe that everyone will adore!

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What Is Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole?

Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a delicious twist on traditional spaghetti. Instead of serving spaghetti with sauce, the ingredients are layered in a casserole dish and baked to create a bubbly, cheesy, and irresistible meal. Combining spaghetti, ground beef, Italian sausage, a robust tomato sauce, and lots of cheese, this dish will become a staple in your recipe collection. Imagine layers of pasta drenched in savory sauce, topped with gooey melted cheese, all baked into a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients List for Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Let’s take a look at the essential ingredients that make this casserole a standout dish. These ingredients are easy to find and can be adjusted to suit your preferences.

• 1 pound of spaghetti: The base of the dish, cooked al dente.
• 1 pound of ground beef: Adds heartiness and flavor.
• ½ pound of Italian sausage: Spicy or mild, depending on your preference.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: For that robust, aromatic touch.
• 24 oz of marinara or spaghetti sauce: A rich tomato-based sauce for layering.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes: Adds texture and fresh tomato flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: For a classic Italian herb flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a zesty kick to the sauce.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a hint of heat.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a gooey, cheesy topping.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty layer of flavor.
• 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese: A creamy component for the layers.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Season the dish to perfection.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the onion and garlic.
• Fresh parsley for garnish: Optional, but adds a pop of color and freshness.

Substitutions and Variations for Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole

One of the best parts about this Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole recipe is how customizable it can be. If you’re looking to change things up or accommodate dietary preferences, here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:

• Meat Substitutes: Instead of ground beef and sausage, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. For a vegetarian casserole, replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or a plant-based meat substitute.
• Cheese Options: Don’t have mozzarella or Parmesan? Use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even gouda for a different cheesy twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the spaghetti with gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-friendly.
• Low-Carb Version: Instead of spaghetti, use spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash for a low-carb, keto-friendly casserole.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or more red pepper flakes if you like your food with a bit more heat.
• More Veggies: You can easily add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the sauce for added nutrients and texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Before you get started, make sure you’ve gathered all your ingredients and preheated your oven to 350°F (175°C). Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to prepare the Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole.

1. 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 the spaghetti and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Meat and Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Cook the Meat: Add the ground beef and Italian sausage to the skillet. Break the meat apart as it cooks, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
4. Prepare the Sauce: Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Layer the Casserole: In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom. Add a layer of cooked spaghetti, followed by a layer of the meat sauce. Dollop the ricotta or cottage cheese on top, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process, starting with spaghetti, until you’ve used all the ingredients. Be sure to end with a generous layer of cheese on top.
7. Bake the Casserole: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.
8. Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

How to Cook Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Spaghetti: Boil the pasta and drain.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Cook the onion and garlic until soft.
3. Brown the Meat: Cook the ground beef and sausage.
4. Make the Sauce: Combine the meats, sauce, and seasonings.
5. Layer the Casserole: Alternate layers of spaghetti, sauce, cheese, and more.
6. Bake and Finish: Bake the casserole until bubbly and golden.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Remember to cook the pasta al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven. Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the casserole.
• Not Draining the Meat: Make sure to drain excess fat after cooking the meat, or your casserole could turn out greasy.
• Skipping the Resting Time: Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice.
• Under-seasoning the Sauce: Don’t forget to taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. A bland sauce can ruin the whole dish.

Serving and Presentation Tips

The presentation of this Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole can be as simple or as elaborate as you like. Here are some serving tips to elevate the meal:

How to Serve Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole

• Family Style: Bring the whole casserole dish to the table and let everyone serve themselves.
• Portioned Plates: For a cleaner presentation, slice the casserole into portions and plate individually with a garnish of fresh parsley or basil.
• Pairings: Serve with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley, basil, or even thyme over the casserole for a pop of color.
• Cheesy Finish: Add a final dusting of Parmesan cheese and broil the casserole for a few minutes to get a golden, crispy cheese layer on top.
• Serve with Sides: Add slices of toasted garlic bread or a warm loaf of crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.

Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake it.
• Freeze for Later: Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole freezes well. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and follow the baking instructions.
• Double the Recipe: Feeding a crowd? Double the ingredients and make two casseroles—one for now and one to freeze for later.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use other types of pasta for this casserole?
A: Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any long pasta like linguine or even short pasta like penne or rigatoni.

Q: How long can I store leftovers?
A: Leftover baked spaghetti casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. It also freezes well for up to 2-3 months.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Yes! Simply omit the meat and add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a vegetarian version of this casserole.

Q: Can I use jarred spaghetti sauce?
A: Definitely! Jarred marinara or spaghetti sauce works great in this recipe and saves time. Just be sure to choose a high-quality sauce with good flavor.

Conclusion

There you have it—a delicious, comforting, and crowd-pleasing Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole that’s perfect for any occasion! With its layers of spaghetti, hearty meat sauce, and gooey cheese, it’s a guaranteed hit with family and friends. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner or a potluck gathering, this recipe is easy to follow, customizable, and sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Don’t forget to experiment with substitutions and variations to make it your own, and enjoy every bite!

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