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Easy Cheesy Spaghetti Casserole: A Family Favorite That Warms the Soul

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This Easy Cheesy Spaghetti Casserole is your go-to comfort food — packed with flavor, loaded with melty cheese, and baked to golden perfection. It’s the kind of no-fuss, family-friendly recipe that turns a weeknight dinner into a cozy, crave-worthy moment. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or prepping for leftovers, this casserole hits all the right notes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 200 g (7 oz) spaghetti
  • 400 g (14 oz) minced meat (beef, pork, or turkey)
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
  • 400 g (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 150 g (1½ cups) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 50 g (½ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add minced meat and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
  5. Stir in crushed tomatoes and let the sauce simmer for 5–10 minutes.
  6. In a large bowl, toss cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce until fully combined.
  7. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
  8. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.
  9. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden.
  10. Let cool slightly, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

  • To make it vegetarian, substitute minced meat with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based crumbles.
  • For a creamy twist, mix in a dollop of ricotta or cream cheese before baking.
  • This recipe can be assembled ahead and refrigerated or frozen before baking.
  • Reheat leftovers in the oven for best texture.

Find it online: https://friendlywell.com/easy-cheesy-spaghetti-casserole-a-family-favorite-that-warms-the-soul/