Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

When you're craving the perfect balance of hearty pasta, rich tomato sauce, savory meats, and gooey melted cheese, nothing hits the spot quite like Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole. This Southern-inspired dish is an irresistible mix of comforting flavors, ideal for feeding a hungry crowd or meal prepping for the week. With layers of noodles, seasoned beef, zesty sauce, and creamy cheese, this casserole makes for a satisfying and crowd-pleasing meal any night of the week.

In this guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about making this delicious baked spaghetti casserole—from ingredients and variations to expert tips and serving suggestions. Read on for the full recipe, and prepare to add a new family favorite to your dinner rotation!

What is Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole?

Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a layered pasta dish that combines cooked spaghetti noodles with a rich, flavorful meat sauce, a creamy cheese mixture, and plenty of melted cheese on top. Unlike traditional spaghetti with meat sauce, this dish is baked in a casserole dish, creating a firm, cheesy, and comforting meal. It’s popular in Southern kitchens, where casseroles are often served at family gatherings, church potlucks, and Sunday dinners. The casserole is baked until golden and bubbly, making every bite a delicious combination of tender pasta, savory meat, and creamy cheese.

Ingredients List for Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Here’s a breakdown of the essential ingredients you’ll need to make a traditional Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole:

For the Meat Sauce:

1. 1 pound ground beef – You can substitute with ground turkey, pork, or a mix of meats.
2. 1 medium onion, diced – Adds flavor and depth to the sauce.
3. 3 cloves garlic, minced – For an extra burst of flavor.
4. 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce – Use your favorite store-bought brand, or make your own.
5. 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained – Adds texture and more tomato flavor.
6. 1 tablespoon tomato paste – To thicken the sauce and intensify the flavor.
7. 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A mix of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
8. ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – For a touch of heat.
9. Salt and pepper – To taste.
10. 2 tablespoons olive oil – For cooking the meat and vegetables.

For the Cheese Mixture:

1. 1 cup ricotta cheese – You can substitute with cottage cheese for a lighter option.
2. 1 cup sour cream – Adds creaminess and a tangy flavor.
3. 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Divided; half will be mixed in, and half will be sprinkled on top.
4. ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the cheese mixture.
5. 1 large egg – Helps bind the cheese mixture.
6. 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped – For added flavor and a pop of color.

For the Pasta:

1. 12 oz spaghetti – Regular or whole wheat, cooked according to package instructions and drained.
2. 1 tablespoon butter – To toss with the spaghetti for extra flavor.

Optional Toppings:

• Extra Parmesan or mozzarella cheese – For even more cheesy goodness.
• Fresh basil or parsley – For garnish.

Substitutions and Variations

You can customize this Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Ground meat substitutions: If you want to switch things up, you can use ground sausage, turkey, chicken, or a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage for extra flavor.
• Spaghetti alternatives: For a lower-carb option, you can use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of traditional spaghetti. Gluten-free spaghetti is also a great alternative if you're avoiding gluten.
• Cheese variety: While mozzarella and ricotta are traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles. Cottage cheese can replace ricotta for a lighter option.
• Vegetarian version: Leave out the meat and add in sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for a vegetarian version of this casserole. You can also use plant-based meat alternatives.
• Extra spice: For those who love spice, add a chopped jalapeño or extra red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make your Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole, step by step:

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until it is al dente (firm to the bite). Drain the spaghetti, toss it with 1 tablespoon of butter to prevent sticking, and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until it is fully browned. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to develop the flavors.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture

While the sauce is simmering, in a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, sour cream, ½ cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, and parsley. Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

Start by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Next, add half of the cooked spaghetti and spread it evenly across the dish. Spoon half of the cheese mixture over the spaghetti, followed by half of the remaining meat sauce.

Repeat the layers by adding the rest of the spaghetti, spreading the remaining cheese mixture over it, and finishing with the remaining meat sauce. Top the casserole with the remaining ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and extra Parmesan if desired.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set and makes it easier to cut and serve. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and serve hot.

How to Cook Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

To summarize the process:

1. Cook the spaghetti until al dente and set aside.
2. Prepare the meat sauce by browning the meat, sautéing the onions and garlic, and simmering it with marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and seasonings.
3. Make the cheese mixture by combining ricotta, sour cream, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and parsley.
4. Assemble the casserole by layering the spaghetti, cheese mixture, and meat sauce in a greased baking dish.
5. Bake covered for 25-30 minutes, then uncovered for 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
6. Let it rest before serving.

By following these steps, you’ll have a hearty and delicious Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole that’s sure to impress!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this dish, keep these common mistakes in mind to ensure your casserole turns out perfect:

1. Overcooking the spaghetti: Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked spaghetti can become mushy in the casserole.
2. Not draining excess grease: After browning the ground beef, drain any excess grease to prevent the casserole from becoming too oily.
3. Undersalting the pasta water: Be sure to salt the water when boiling the spaghetti, as this is your chance to season the pasta itself.
4. Skipping the resting time: Let the casserole rest for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set properly.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a hearty, homey dish that doesn’t require much in the way of fancy presentation. However, there are a few ways to elevate its appearance:

1. Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a burst of color and freshness.
2. Serve with a side salad: A crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
3. Pair with garlic bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread on the side for a true comfort food feast.

How to Serve Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Serve Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole hot, directly from the oven. Pair it with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables to complete the meal. For a Southern touch, you can even serve it with a side of cornbread!

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but if you want to make it part of a larger spread, it pairs well with green beans, sautéed spinach, or a light vegetable medley.

Presentation Ideas for Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Here are a few creative ways to present your casserole:

• Individual servings: For a fancier presentation, scoop individual servings onto plates and garnish each portion with a fresh basil leaf.
• Rustic cast iron skillet: Serve the casserole straight from a cast iron skillet for a rustic, homestyle look.
• Layered glass baking dish: Use a glass baking dish to showcase the layers of noodles, sauce, and cheese for an eye-catching presentation.

Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe Tips

1. Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
2. Freeze for later: This casserole freezes beautifully! Assemble the dish and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
3. Reheating leftovers: Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover the entire dish with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free spaghetti and ensure that your marinara sauce is gluten-free.

2. How long does Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, leftovers will keep for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

3. Can I substitute cottage cheese for ricotta?
Yes, cottage cheese is a great substitute for ricotta if you prefer a lighter option.

4. How do I prevent my casserole from drying out?
Cover the casserole with foil while baking to keep it moist. Removing the foil in the last 10-15 minutes will allow the cheese to brown without drying out the dish.

Conclusion

Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting, delicious dish that combines the best elements of pasta, cheese, and a hearty meat sauce. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this casserole is sure to become a beloved favorite. With its easy assembly, customizable ingredients, and ability to be made ahead, this Southern classic is a must-try recipe. Enjoy the rich flavors and warm, satisfying bites of this baked spaghetti casserole today!

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