When it comes to comfort food, it doesn't get much better than Paula Deen's Baked Spaghetti. This crowd-pleasing classic combines ground beef, cheese, and plenty of pasta to create a savory and satisfying dish that's sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. The dish is incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients. Plus, it can easily be doubled or tripled for larger groups.
The key to Paula Deen's Baked Spaghetti is to use quality ingredients. Start by browning some ground beef in a large skillet. Once the beef is cooked through, add some diced onion and garlic, and season with salt and pepper. Once the onion is softened, add some tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Finally, stir in some cooked spaghetti, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
Once the spaghetti is ready, pour it into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with some more mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese, and bake in a 350 degree oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving. Serve with a tossed salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Why You'll Love This Dish
Paula Deen's Baked Spaghetti is a great dish for busy weeknights because it's so easy to make. The whole dish comes together in about 45 minutes, and you can easily double or triple the recipe for larger groups. The dish also freezes well, so you can make a double batch and freeze half for later. Plus, the dish is kid-friendly and can easily be modified to suit picky eaters.
The combination of ground beef, tomato sauce, cheese, and pasta makes for an incredibly comforting and satisfying dish. The flavors meld together perfectly, making for a flavorful and hearty meal that's sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, you can easily customize the dish to suit your tastes. Try adding some diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce, or top with some cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor.
Tips For Making the Best Baked Spaghetti
For the best results, use good quality ingredients. Ground beef should be fresh and free of gristle and fat. Choose a high-quality tomato sauce for the best flavor. When it comes to cheese, use freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella for the best flavor and texture. Finally, be sure to cook the spaghetti until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
When assembling the dish, be sure to spread the spaghetti evenly in the baking dish. This will ensure even cooking, and the cheese will melt evenly. If you're using any additional ingredients, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, be sure to cook them until they're softened before adding them to the dish. Finally, don't forget to let the dish rest before serving; this will help the flavors meld together and ensure that the cheese sets up.
Frequently Asked Questions
What other ingredients can be added to baked spaghetti?
Baked spaghetti is a great dish for customizing to suit your tastes. Try adding some cooked crumbled bacon, diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even chopped cooked sausage for more flavor and texture.
How long will baked spaghetti keep in the fridge?
Baked spaghetti will keep in the refrigerator for up to four days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container. Reheat in a 350 degree oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.
Can baked spaghetti be frozen?
Yes, baked spaghetti can be frozen. Let the dish cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake in a 350 degree oven for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make baked spaghetti ahead of time. Assemble the dish according to the instructions, then cover tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let the dish come to room temperature before baking in a 350 degree oven for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through.
Can I substitute ground turkey for the ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground beef in this recipe. Be sure to cook the turkey until it is no longer pink and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
