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This Baked Spaghetti and Ricotta Casserole is a comforting, cheesy delight perfect for any night. Imagine layers of spaghetti smothered in marinara sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and topped with gooey mozzarella and parmesan. It's a simple yet satisfying dish that brings everyone to the table. Let's dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and create a meal that's sure to become a family favorite.
The name of the recipe: Baked Spaghetti and Ricotta Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce.
- Layer half of the cooked spaghetti over the sauce.
- Spread the ricotta mixture over the spaghetti.
- Top with remaining spaghetti and marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
What You Will Need
Read more: Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
What you will need to make baked spaghetti and ricotta casserole
- Spaghetti: Forms the base of the casserole, providing structure and a familiar pasta texture everyone loves.
- Ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and a mild flavor, balancing the acidity of the marinara sauce.
- Marinara sauce: Brings a rich tomato flavor, tying all the ingredients together with its savory goodness.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully on top, creating a gooey, cheesy layer that’s irresistible.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
- Garlic: Infuses the casserole with a fragrant, savory aroma that complements the other ingredients.
- Dried oregano: Provides a hint of earthy, herbal flavor, adding depth to the sauce and cheese.
Tools and Instruments Required
What tools/instruments will be needed to make Baked Spaghetti and Ricotta Casserole Recipe
- Large pot: Needed to cook the spaghetti until al dente, ensuring it holds up well in the casserole.
- Mixing bowl: Used to combine ricotta cheese, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper into a smooth mixture.
- Baking dish: Essential for layering and baking the casserole, allowing even cooking and a bubbly cheese top.
- Colander: Drains the cooked spaghetti, preventing excess water from making the casserole soggy.
- Wooden spoon: Helps mix ingredients thoroughly and spread layers evenly in the baking dish.
Baked Spaghetti and Ricotta Casserole
A comforting casserole with layers of spaghetti, ricotta, and marinara sauce, baked to perfection.
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Ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce.
- Layer half of the cooked spaghetti over the sauce.
- Spread the ricotta mixture over the spaghetti.
- Top with remaining spaghetti and marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes:
Feel free to add cooked ground beef or sausage for extra protein.
Read more: Baked Rigatoni with Ricotta Casserole Recipe
Nutrition value:
Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg
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Make Ahead and Freezing Instructions
Make Ahead Instructions
- Cook spaghetti and let it cool.
- Prepare ricotta mixture.
- Assemble casserole in baking dish.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
- Refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Freezing Instructions
- Assemble casserole as directed.
- Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then foil.
- Freeze up to 3 months.
- Thaw in refrigerator overnight.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40-50 minutes.
For a richer flavor, mix a bit of nutmeg into the ricotta cheese mixture. It adds a subtle warmth that complements the marinara sauce beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ:
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
About 30 minutes for prep and 30-40 minutes for baking.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any pasta you like will work.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely, just assemble and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Sure, cooked ground beef or sausage would be great additions.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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