Easy Baked Spaghetti
Ingredients
- 1 pound spaghetti
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves
minced
- 1 small onion
diced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- or to taste1 teaspoon salt
- 1 green bell pepper
diced
- 1 canned diced tomatoes
14.5-ounce
- 3 cups water
- 2 cups marinara
- ¼ cup chopped basil
plus more for garnish
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese
- Grated parmesan cheese
for serving
Directions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 375˚F. Place the uncooked spaghetti in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Add the olive oil, garlic, onions, Italian seasoning and salt. Use your hands to gently toss and evenly distribute the ingredients.
- 2
Add the bell pepper, canned diced tomatoes, water, marinara and basil on top of the spaghetti, and toss it again using tongs to evenly coat the spaghetti with the sauce and vegetables.
- 3
Bake uncovered for 40 minutes. Toss the spaghetti and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Continue baking uncovered for 15-20 more minutes or until the top is browned and bubbly.
- 4
Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil and parmesan cheese and serve.
Easy Baked Spaghetti
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About this Recipe
Craving a hearty, comforting meal that brings everyone to the table without hours in the kitchen? This Easy Baked Spaghetti recipe delivers, offering a cheesy vegetarian pasta casserole that’s a true family favorite and incredibly simple to prepare.
The genius of this dish lies in its unmatched simplicity and crowd-pleasing appeal. Designed as a one-pan wonder, it comes together effortlessly in the oven, transforming humble pantry staples into a deeply satisfying meal. The secret is the harmonious blend of rich marinara, aromatic vegetables like onion, garlic, and green bell pepper, all intertwined with tender spaghetti and generous layers of gooey mozzarella. This fuss-free approach ensures maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it a reliable hit.
Prepare for a dish that’s both familiar in its comfort and surprisingly robust in flavor. You'll discover perfectly tender spaghetti, enveloped in a rich, savory tomato sauce that’s brightened by the fresh notes of basil and expertly seasoned with Italian herbs, garlic, and diced onion. The vibrant green bell pepper adds a gentle sweetness and texture, while each forkful promises a delightful stretch of melted mozzarella, creating an irresistible, gooey interior. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese at the table adds a final flourish of salty, nutty depth. This naturally vegetarian casserole is hearty and satisfying, making it an ideal choice for a comforting weeknight dinner or a centerpiece for any casual gathering.
While this baked spaghetti is fantastic in its original form, it's also wonderfully adaptable to your pantry and preferences. Don't have fresh basil? A teaspoon of dried basil added with the Italian seasoning will still provide that essential herbaceous note. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes stirred into the sauce can add a subtle kick. Feel free to experiment with different melting cheeses, perhaps adding a layer of provolone or a sharp white cheddar along with the mozzarella, to customize the cheesy goodness to your liking.
This Easy Baked Spaghetti is the quintessential dish for cozy family dinners, casual gatherings, or any occasion calling for a delicious and fuss-free meal. Serve it piping hot, straight from the oven, with an extra dusting of grated Parmesan cheese and perhaps a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying spread.