Baked Spaghetti with Creamy Tomato Sauce

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful pasta dish that comes together with ease, look no further than Baked Spaghetti with Creamy Tomato Sauce. This recipe takes classic spaghetti to the next level by baking it in a luscious creamy tomato sauce, layered with tender ground beef, aromatic herbs, and plenty of melty cheese. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or whenever you want to cozy up with a dish that feels homemade and satisfying. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a go-to in your recipe rotation.

Why It Works Every Time

Baked Spaghetti with Creamy Tomato Sauce hits all the right notes for a winning pasta bake. Here’s why it always delivers:

• Balanced flavors: The combination of tangy tomato sauce, rich cream, and savory ground beef creates a harmonious taste that’s both comforting and exciting.
• Perfect texture: The spaghetti cooks just right before baking, so it doesn’t turn mushy but absorbs the sauce beautifully. The creamy sauce keeps everything tender and moist.
• Cheesy goodness: Mozzarella and Parmesan melt and brown on top, creating a bubbly, golden crust that adds a delightful contrast to the creamy sauce underneath.
• Easy to customize: This recipe lends itself well to tweaks and add-ins, making it adaptable for different tastes and seasons.
• Hands-off baking: Once assembled, the oven does the work, freeing you up to relax or prep sides.

What Goes Into Baked Spaghetti with Creamy Tomato Sauce

Here’s the full rundown of ingredients that come together to make this delicious dish:

• 8 ounces spaghetti – cooked al dente for the best texture.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing onions and garlic.
• 1 onion, chopped – adds a sweet, savory base flavor.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – gives a fragrant punch.
• 1 pound ground beef – provides hearty protein and richness.
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce – the smooth, tangy backbone of the sauce.
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes – adds texture and freshness.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – classic Italian herb for depth.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil – bright and aromatic notes.
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential seasonings.
• 1 cup heavy cream – creates that luscious creamy texture.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – melts beautifully for gooey goodness.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – sharp, nutty flavor to finish.
• Fresh basil for garnish – adds color and a fresh herbal touch.

Toolbox for This Recipe

To make the process smooth and enjoyable, here’s what you’ll need:

• Large pot – to boil the spaghetti.
• Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking the ground beef and sauce.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring.
• 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for the spaghetti bake.
• Colander – to drain the pasta.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy.
• Grater – to shred mozzarella and Parmesan if not pre-shredded.

Directions: Baked Spaghetti with Creamy Tomato Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, usually about 8 minutes or according to package instructions. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with your spoon, until it’s no longer pink and starts to brown, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 4: Build the Tomato Sauce

Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes (with juices). Stir in dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10 minutes to develop flavor.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Mix until the sauce turns a lovely pinkish color and is smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss well to coat every strand thoroughly.

Step 7: Assemble the Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the creamy spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the top.

Step 8: Bake

Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy warm!

Seasonal Adaptations

• Spring: Add fresh peas and sautéed asparagus tips for a pop of green and sweetness.
• Summer: Stir in chopped fresh tomatoes and basil for a garden-fresh vibe.
• Fall: Mix in roasted mushrooms and a sprinkle of sage for earthy warmth.
• Winter: Add cooked spinach or kale for a nutrient boost and color.

Cook’s Notes

• You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• For a vegetarian twist, replace meat with cooked lentils or crumbled firm tofu.
• If you love extra cheese, try layering in some ricotta or swapping mozzarella for provolone.
• Leftover sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for 2 months.
• Make sure not to overcook the pasta initially, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

Baked Spaghetti with Creamy Tomato Sauce makes excellent leftovers. Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the dish with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through to preserve texture and flavor.

This dish also freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Baked Spaghetti with Creamy Tomato Sauce Q&A

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta a day in advance. Assemble the bake just before you’re ready to cook it, then refrigerate until baking.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you prefer a lighter option, full-fat coconut milk or a blend of milk and cream cheese can be used to achieve a creamy texture.

How do I prevent the pasta from drying out?

Ensure you toss the spaghetti thoroughly with the sauce so every strand is coated. Baking covered with foil for part of the time can also help retain moisture.

Can I add more cheese?

Yes! For those who adore cheesy casseroles, layering in extra mozzarella or even trying recipes like Cheesy Triple Cheese Baked Spaghetti can be a delightful upgrade.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Creamy Tomato Basil Shrimp Pasta – A lighter seafood pasta with rich tomato cream sauce.
• Baked Four Cheese Ziti – A cheesy, comforting pasta bake with a variety of cheeses.
• Cheesy Triple Cheese Baked Spaghetti – For those extra cheesy cravings with three kinds of cheese.

Wrap-Up

Baked Spaghetti with Creamy Tomato Sauce is a timeless recipe that combines comfort, flavor, and simplicity in one satisfying dish. The creamy sauce, tender pasta, and melty cheese come together to create a meal that’s both hearty and irresistible. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping for easy weeknight dinners, this baked spaghetti will quickly earn a permanent spot on your menu. Don’t forget to experiment with seasonal add-ins and cheese varieties to keep it fresh and exciting every time you make it.

Enjoy this cozy pasta bake with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete and delicious meal that everyone will love!

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