spaghetti bake with ground beef

Spaghetti bake with ground beef is a classic dish that is sure to please the whole family. It is easy to make, full of flavor and can be prepared in advance. Ground beef is the main protein in this dish, but you could substitute ground turkey or chicken if desired. This dish is a great way to use up leftovers or to make ahead for a busy weeknight dinner. Read on for a delicious recipe for spaghetti bake with ground beef.

Ingredients

For the spaghetti bake with ground beef, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 (16 oz) package dry spaghetti noodles
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

To make spaghetti bake with ground beef, begin by preheating the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat. Add the Italian seasoning, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Simmer for 10 minutes, then add the water and simmer for another 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

Once the sauce is done, add the cooked spaghetti noodles and stir to combine. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can use ground turkey instead of ground beef if desired. Ground turkey has a slightly different flavor profile than ground beef, but it will still work in this recipe.

Can I make this spaghetti bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this spaghetti bake ahead of time. Simply assemble the dish, cover it with foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When ready to bake, remove the foil and bake as directed.

What can I serve this spaghetti bake with?

This spaghetti bake pairs well with a variety of sides. Try serving it with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of garlic bread.

Can I freeze this spaghetti bake?

Yes, you can freeze this spaghetti bake for up to three months. Be sure to cool the dish completely before freezing to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

What kind of cheese should I use?

For this recipe, you will need both shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. You can use either pre-shredded cheese or freshly grated cheese.