Get ready to indulge in a comforting classic that will have your taste buds dancing! Our "Hunk of Meat Monday Baked Cheesy Beef Spaghetti" is the ultimate Italian-inspired dish that combines hearty ground beef, gooey mozzarella, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, all baked to perfection. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a mouthwatering aroma wafting through your kitchen in under an hour, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Trust us, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked! So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this cheesy delight that promises to be a family favorite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 can marinara sauce
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain pasta and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Break the meat into small crumbles while cooking. Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- Season the ground beef with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg. Add half of the mozzarella and all of the parmesan cheese to the egg, mixing well to combine.
- In the prepared baking dish, layer the cooked spaghetti, then spread the beef and marinara mixture evenly over the pasta.
- Sprinkle the cheese and egg mixture over the top, then cover with remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly and edges are golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes cutting easier.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional parmesan cheese or fresh basil if desired.
Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Spaghetti: To achieve that al dente texture, make sure to salt your boiling water generously and follow the package instructions closely. This ensures your pasta holds up well in the baking process.
- Flavor Boost: Don’t be shy with the seasonings! Feel free to add garlic powder, onion powder, or even a dash of red pepper flakes to the ground beef for an extra flavor kick.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: If you adore cheese, consider mixing in some provolone or cheddar along with the mozzarella for a richer flavor profile.
- Resting Time is Key: Allowing the dish to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking helps the layers set, making it easier to serve and enjoy without it falling apart.
- Garnish for Greatness: Elevate your dish by garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil before serving. It adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 110mg
