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If you're craving a comforting, cheesy dish that’s both hearty and vegetarian, this Vegetarian Baked Spaghetti Casserole is your go-to! Packed with layers of marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a potluck, this casserole brings together simple ingredients to create a mouthwatering meal. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Vegetarian Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
- 12 oz uncooked spaghetti
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium chopped onion
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Add the marinara sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese.
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the marinara sauce mixture. Add half of the cooked spaghetti, then spread the ricotta cheese mixture on top. Add the remaining spaghetti and cover with the rest of the marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
What You Will Need
Read more: Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
What you will need to make Vegetarian Baked Spaghetti Casserole
- Spaghetti: Forms the base of the casserole, providing a hearty texture and absorbing the flavors of the sauce and cheese.
- Marinara sauce: Adds rich tomato flavor and moisture, tying all the ingredients together with its savory taste.
- Ricotta cheese: Offers a creamy layer that balances the acidity of the marinara sauce and adds richness.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, creating a gooey, cheesy top layer that makes the casserole irresistible.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the other cheeses and enhances the overall taste.
- Olive oil: Used for sautéing the onions and garlic, adding a subtle depth of flavor to the dish.
- Onion: Provides a sweet, aromatic base that enhances the overall flavor profile of the casserole.
- Garlic: Adds a robust, savory note that complements the marinara sauce and other ingredients.
- Dried basil: Infuses the dish with a hint of sweetness and herbal aroma, enhancing the Italian flavors.
- Dried oregano: Adds a slightly bitter, earthy flavor that balances the sweetness of the marinara sauce.
Tools and Instruments Required
What tools/instruments will be needed to make Vegetarian Baked Spaghetti Casserole
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the spaghetti and simmering the marinara sauce, ensuring flavors meld together perfectly.
- Baking dish: Needed to layer the spaghetti, cheese, and sauce, allowing the casserole to bake evenly.
- Mixing bowl: Useful for combining the ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses, creating a creamy layer.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the sauce and mixing ingredients without scratching cookware.
- Colander: Drains the cooked spaghetti efficiently, preventing it from becoming soggy.
- Oven: Bakes the casserole to melt the cheese and blend flavors, giving it a golden, bubbly finish.
Vegetarian Baked Spaghetti Casserole
A delicious and hearty vegetarian baked spaghetti casserole perfect for family dinners.
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Ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti uncooked
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- 1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 3. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
- 4. Add the marinara sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- 5. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese.
- 6. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the marinara sauce mixture. Add half of the cooked spaghetti, then spread the ricotta cheese mixture on top. Add the remaining spaghetti and cover with the rest of the marinara sauce.
- 7. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- 8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- 9. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes:
This casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated. Just bake it when you're ready to eat.
Read more: Meatless Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Nutrition value:
Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg
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Make Ahead and Freezing Tips
Make Ahead Instructions
- Cook spaghetti and sauce as directed.
- Assemble casserole but don't bake.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
- Store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Freezing Instructions
- Assemble casserole without baking.
- Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in fridge overnight before baking.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes.
Using ricotta cheese in this Vegetarian Baked Spaghetti Casserole adds a creamy texture that balances the acidity of the marinara sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ:
Can I use whole wheat spaghetti instead of regular spaghetti?
Yes, whole wheat spaghetti works just fine. Just cook it according to the package instructions.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it. Just make sure it's completely cooled before wrapping it tightly and freezing.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
Cottage cheese or even a vegan ricotta substitute can work as alternatives.
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