Cheesy Triple Cheese Baked Spaghetti

Craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing pasta dish that’s loaded with gooey, melty cheese? Look no further than this Cheesy Triple Cheese Baked Spaghetti. It’s a luscious, baked casserole that combines tender spaghetti noodles with savory ground beef, rich marinara sauce, and three different kinds of cheese for maximum flavor and creaminess. From the creamy ricotta to the stretchy mozzarella and sharp Parmesan, each bite is a celebration of cheesy goodness. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or anytime you want a warm, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious.

Why This Recipe Works

This Cheesy Triple Cheese Baked Spaghetti hits all the right notes. First, the pasta is cooked just to al dente, so it holds up beautifully in the bake without turning mushy. The ground beef is seasoned with garlic and onion powders, adding depth without overpowering the dish. The marinara sauce ties everything together with its bright tomato flavor. What really sets this apart is the trio of cheeses: ricotta adds creaminess and a subtle tang, mozzarella brings gooey stretchiness, and Parmesan delivers a nutty, savory punch. Plus, cheddar cheese adds a touch of sharpness and color that rounds out the flavor profile perfectly. Baking the pasta casserole allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to brown slightly on top, creating a gorgeous, golden crust. The fresh basil garnish adds a hint of herbal brightness that cuts through the richness.

Shopping List

• 8 ounces spaghetti (regular or whole wheat)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef (choose lean for less grease)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce (choose your favorite brand or homemade)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Equipment & Tools

• Large pot – for boiling spaghetti
• Large skillet or frying pan – for cooking ground beef
• Colander – to drain pasta
• 9×13-inch baking dish – to bake the spaghetti casserole
• Mixing spoon or spatula – for combining ingredients
• Measuring cups and spoons

Build Cheesy Triple Cheese Baked Spaghetti Step by Step

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-9 minutes). Drain the pasta well and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Add the Marinara Sauce

Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes to blend the flavors. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce. Mix until the pasta is evenly coated.

Step 5: Layer the Cheeses

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In your 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the spaghetti mixture evenly. Dollop half of the ricotta cheese over the pasta in spoonfuls, then sprinkle with half of the mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheeses. Repeat with the remaining spaghetti, ricotta, and cheeses to create two cheesy layers.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to brown on top.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Let the baked spaghetti cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve warm and enjoy the melty, cheesy goodness!

Ingredient Flex Options

• Ground Beef Alternative: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or provolone for a different flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute cooked lentils or sautéed mushrooms for the ground beef.
• Spaghetti Substitute: Use penne, rigatoni, or ziti if you prefer a chunkier pasta shape.
• Marinara Sauce: Homemade marinara or a spicy arrabbiata sauce adds a nice twist.

Steer Clear of These

• Overcooking the spaghetti before baking – it can turn mushy.
• Using too much oil when browning meat – it can make the dish greasy.
• Skipping seasoning – garlic and onion powders add subtle but important flavor layers.
• Not letting the baked spaghetti rest before serving – it helps the cheese set and makes it easier to portion.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This Cheesy Triple Cheese Baked Spaghetti is fantastic for meal prep. You can assemble it a day ahead, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready, simply bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven.

Common Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is classic, penne, rigatoni, or even baked ziti work wonderfully. In fact, if you want a similar baked pasta experience, you might want to try this Baked Ziti With Ricotta for a slightly different texture and bite.

Is it necessary to use three cheeses in this recipe?

The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish. However, if you only have two, you can still make a delicious baked spaghetti. Just keep the mozzarella for meltiness and add either ricotta or Parmesan depending on your preference.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the ground beef with cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat substitute. Season and cook as you would the beef to maintain flavor. This way, you still get a hearty and satisfying dish without meat.

How do I prevent the baked spaghetti from drying out?

Covering the dish with foil for the first part of baking traps moisture and keeps the pasta tender. Also, tossing the pasta with a good amount of marinara sauce ensures it stays saucy during baking. Avoid overbaking, which can dry out the cheese and pasta.

What to Make After This

• Baked Ziti With Ricotta – another cheesy baked pasta dish to try once you’ve mastered this one.
• Good Ole Fashioned Mac And Cheese – a creamy, comforting classic that’s perfect for cheese lovers.
• Garlic bread – to soak up all the cheesy sauce.
• Simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette – for a fresh contrast to the richness.

Ready to Cook?

This Cheesy Triple Cheese Baked Spaghetti is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for weeknights but special enough for company. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a bubbling, golden casserole that everyone will rave about. Grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to dive into cheesy, saucy perfection!

This recipe brings together the best of comfort food with layers of flavor and cheese that make it truly unforgettable. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this baked spaghetti is a winner every time. Enjoy!

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