Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Authentic Italian-Style Spaghetti Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines classic Italian pasta with a rich meat sauce, layers of gooey cheese, and perfectly cooked spaghetti, all baked to golden perfection. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you’re craving hearty Italian comfort food.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

spaghetti ground beef or Italian sausagetomato saucecrushed tomatoestomato pasteoniongarlicolive oilItalian seasoningdried basilsaltblack peppermozzarella cheeseparmesan cheeseeggsfresh parsley

directions

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

Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent.

Add ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Stir in tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15–20 minutes to develop flavor.

In a large bowl, toss cooked spaghetti with beaten eggs and half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Spread a layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.

Add half of the spaghetti mixture, followed by more sauce and cheese. Repeat layers, finishing with sauce and remaining cheese on top.

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6–8 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesCooking time: 30–35 minutesTotal time: 50–55 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version.

Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the sauce for extra veggies.

Swap spaghetti for another pasta like penne or rigatoni for a twist.

Use ricotta cheese between layers for added creaminess.

Top with fresh mozzarella slices for a more decadent finish.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.Freeze baked and cooled portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

Do I have to use eggs?

Eggs help bind the pasta, but you can skip them or use a vegan substitute if needed.

Is it necessary to cover with foil?

Yes, it keeps the top from overbaking and helps the cheese melt evenly.

Can I use jarred sauce?

Yes, a good-quality jarred marinara can save time and still taste great.

How do I keep spaghetti from sticking?

Toss with a little olive oil after cooking and draining.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, omit the meat or use a meatless crumble and boost with extra veggies.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Absolutely, it’s cheesy, saucy, and familiar—perfect for picky eaters.

Can I add heat?

Yes, add red pepper flakes or hot Italian sausage for a spicy kick.

What cheese melts best?

Mozzarella is classic, but provolone or fontina also work beautifully.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, bake in two pans or a large casserole dish for larger crowds.

Conclusion

Authentic Italian-Style Spaghetti Bake is a timeless and satisfying dish that brings all the flavors of Italy into your kitchen. With layers of rich sauce, melty cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone back to the table for seconds. Make it once, and it might just become a weekly tradition.