Spaghetti Casserole With Ground Beef and Cheese – Easy Baked Pasta Recipe

Introduction to Spaghetti Casserole With Ground Beef and Cheese

There’s something uniquely comforting about a bubbling casserole straight from the oven—and Spaghetti Casserole With Ground Beef and Cheese delivers all the cozy vibes in one easy, crowd-pleasing dish. Combining the heartiness of ground chuck, the richness of tomato sauce, and layers of melty cheese, this baked spaghetti twist is a family favorite for good reason.

Unlike traditional spaghetti dishes served straight from the stovetop, this version is baked until golden and bubbly, letting the flavors meld together in a comforting, sliceable meal. It’s great for potlucks, make-ahead dinners, and leftover-loving households. With pantry staples like crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs, this dish requires little effort for maximum payoff. The mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top create that irresistible cheesy crust, while the seasoned ground beef adds savory depth throughout every bite.

Want to get even more inspired? Browse a similar classic Baked Spaghetti recipe from The Pioneer Woman or dive deeper into the world of pasta casseroles at AllRecipes.

Whether you’re serving a hungry family, prepping a freezer-friendly meal, or just want that nostalgic baked pasta feel, this casserole is the answer. Let’s bring this hearty, cheesy comfort food to life.

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Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

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Steps to Make It:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 3

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.

Step 4

Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add ground chuck and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 5

Mix in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, parsley, sugar (if using), mushrooms, red pepper flakes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes to let flavors develop.

Step 6

While the sauce simmers, cook spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and toss lightly with a drizzle of olive oil.

Step 7

Combine spaghetti and sauce in a large bowl or directly in the baking dish. Mix well.

Step 8

Top evenly with Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 9

Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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Advanced Techniques for Spaghetti Casserole With Ground Beef and Cheese

1. Use Two Cheeses for Flavor Depth

While mozzarella gives you that classic melt and stretch, pairing it with Parmesan adds an extra dimension of flavor. Parmesan brings a savory, nutty sharpness that balances the sweetness of tomato sauce and complements the richness of ground beef. Want to take it further? Add layers of provolone or fontina between the pasta and sauce. These cheeses melt beautifully and lend a creamy, gooey texture that makes each bite more decadent and satisfying.

2. Infuse the Sauce With Wine or Broth

After browning the ground beef, don’t waste those flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Deglaze with ¼ cup of red wine or beef broth—this lifts the fond and infuses your sauce with deeper, more robust flavor. Let the liquid simmer for a minute or two, allowing it to reduce slightly before adding your tomatoes or marinara. This simple step adds a layer of sophistication and richness that makes the casserole taste like it’s been simmering all day.

3. Add Ricotta for Creamy Layers

Take inspiration from lasagna and add dollops of seasoned ricotta cheese between the layers of pasta and meat sauce. Mix the ricotta with chopped parsley, basil, a pinch of salt, and cracked pepper for an herbaceous, creamy middle layer. This technique adds a luxurious texture and a mild tang that pairs beautifully with the heartiness of the beef and the sweetness of the sauce. It’s a small addition that completely elevates the dish.

4. Undercook the Pasta Slightly

To avoid a mushy casserole, cook your spaghetti 1 to 2 minutes less than the package instructions. Since the pasta will continue to absorb moisture and soften as it bakes, this ensures it maintains some bite and holds up better when served or reheated. Undercooking is key to preserving the dish’s texture and preventing the noodles from becoming overly soft or soggy.

5. Finish With a Cheese Crust Broil

To get that restaurant-style golden cheese top, switch your oven to broil during the last 2–3 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it—cheese can go from golden to burnt quickly. This finishing touch gives your casserole a bubbling, crispy cheese crust with irresistible edges. It’s the kind of top that makes people fight over corner pieces.

6. Mix in Vegetables for Extra Nutrients

Sneak in extra nutrition without sacrificing flavor by adding sautéed vegetables to your sauce. Spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers are all great options that blend seamlessly into the mix. These veggies add color, fiber, and texture, making the casserole more balanced and filling. It’s also a smart way to stretch your ingredients and make the dish go further—especially helpful for feeding a crowd or meal prepping.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

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Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

1. Storing in the Fridge

After enjoying your spaghetti casserole, allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. This prevents condensation from forming inside the container, which can lead to sogginess. Stored properly in the refrigerator, it will keep fresh for up to 4 days. In fact, the flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even more flavorful the next day. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot and bubbly for an easy next-day meal.

2. Freezer-Friendly Instructions

Spaghetti casserole is a great candidate for freezing, whether before or after baking. To freeze unbaked, assemble the dish in a freezer-safe container, then wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, place the casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil, and bake for 20–30 minutes longer than the original time. For cooked leftovers, cool completely and freeze in individual portions for quick, reheatable meals later on.

3. Reheating for Fresh Flavor

For the best texture and flavor, reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to prevent the cheese from drying out or burning. Bake until the center is heated through, about 20 minutes. For faster reheating, microwave individual portions in 60–90 second intervals. To prevent dryness, add a splash of marinara or a tablespoon of water before heating and cover the dish loosely. This helps the pasta stay moist and the cheese stay melty.

4. Preventing Mushy Pasta

To preserve that ideal al dente texture, slightly undercook the pasta by 1–2 minutes before mixing it into the casserole. This is especially important if you plan to store or freeze the dish, as the pasta continues to cook while baking and during reheating. This tip helps maintain structure and chew, even after multiple heat cycles.

5. Use the Broiler for Day-Old Casserole

Give day-old casserole new life by finishing it under the broiler for 2–3 minutes after reheating. Whether you warmed it in the microwave or oven, a quick broil re-crisps the cheese topping, reviving that fresh-from-the-oven texture. Sprinkle a bit of extra Parmesan or mozzarella on top before broiling to boost flavor and get that beautiful, golden crust all over again.

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Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

1. Gluten-Free Pasta Swap

To make your spaghetti casserole gluten-free, simply substitute traditional spaghetti with a gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, quinoa, or a legume blend. Choose a variety that holds up well during baking—some gluten-free pastas can become mushy if overcooked, so be sure to undercook by 1–2 minutes before layering into the casserole. Always double-check labels on your pasta and sauce to ensure they’re certified gluten-free and safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

2. Dairy-Free Cheese Options

Going dairy-free? No problem—this casserole can still be rich and comforting. Swap regular cheese with vegan mozzarella-style shreds, and add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami flavor. For creamier layers, try cashew cream or a plant-based ricotta. Just make sure to read labels on jarred sauces, as some include hidden dairy like cream or cheese. With the right swaps, you’ll have a casserole that’s 100% dairy-free and 100% delicious.

3. Low-Carb or Keto Option

For a low-carb or keto-friendly version, replace the spaghetti with spiralized zucchini (zoodles) or roasted spaghetti squash. These vegetable-based alternatives keep the dish light while soaking up all the delicious sauce and seasonings. Note that zucchini and squash have more water content, so consider salting and draining them first, or baking the casserole uncovered to reduce moisture. While the texture will differ from traditional pasta, the flavor and satisfaction are still spot-on.

4. Vegetarian Version

You can easily turn this into a hearty vegetarian casserole by skipping the ground beef and replacing it with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based meat crumbles. These options mimic the texture of meat while adding plant-based protein and fiber. For even more flavor, include chopped onions, garlic, or spinach in your sauce. Pair with a rich marinara and your favorite cheese (or dairy-free alternative) for a comforting meatless meal everyone can enjoy.

5. Lower Sodium Variation

To reduce sodium while keeping the flavor intact, start by using no-salt-added tomato sauce or canned tomatoes. Cook your own ground beef or plant-based protein from scratch, skipping pre-seasoned or processed varieties. Omit salty cheeses like Parmesan, or use reduced-sodium cheese in moderation. Instead, layer in bold, fresh flavors using herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, and garlic. A splash of lemon juice or vinegar at the end can also brighten the flavor without extra salt.

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FAQs About Spaghetti Casserole With Ground Beef and Cheese

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it fully, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add an extra 5–10 minutes to the bake time if cooking straight from the fridge.

2. What type of pasta works best?

Thin spaghetti is traditional, but you can use angel hair, linguine, or even penne. Stick with pasta types that hold sauce well and won’t overcook during baking.

3. How can I make it spicier?

Increase the red pepper flakes, or add diced jalapeños or hot Italian sausage to the meat. A pinch of cayenne in the sauce can also add a nice kick.

4. Is this freezer-safe after baking?

Yes! Bake the casserole, cool completely, then freeze portions in airtight containers. When ready to eat, thaw overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through.

5. What side dishes go well with this casserole?

Pair with a crisp Caesar salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies. A simple green salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the cheese and beef.

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Conclusion & Final Thoughts

1. Classic Comfort in Every Bite

Spaghetti Casserole With Ground Beef and Cheese* is the perfect blend of nostalgic comfort food and weeknight practicality. It’s hearty, filling, and never fails to please.

2. Great for Make-Ahead Meals

This casserole is ideal for prepping in advance or doubling for leftovers. It reheats beautifully and saves time during busy weeks.

3. Flexible and Forgiving

Don’t have one of the ingredients? This dish is flexible. Mix and match cheeses, swap out pasta shapes, or add veggies—it’s all delicious.

4. Loved by All Ages

Kids love the cheesy pasta layers, while adults appreciate the savory beef and customizable spice level. It’s truly a family favorite from toddlers to grandparents.

5. Your New Go-To Baked Pasta Dish

Once you try this version, it’s bound to become a regular in your dinner rotation. It’s everything you love about spaghetti—just cozier, cheesier, and baked to perfection.