Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Craving a warm, comforting meal that's easy to prepare and loved by the whole family? This Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole is the perfect dish for you! Packed with a flavorful sauce, melty cheese, and tender spaghetti, this Southern twist on the classic pasta dish will satisfy your cravings and become a go-to recipe for weeknight dinners or potlucks. Stick around for a step-by-step guide, tips on ingredient substitutions, serving ideas, and more!

this Recipe

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What Is Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole?

Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a hearty, comforting pasta dish with a rich, meaty sauce, lots of cheese, and a baked finish that gives it a beautiful golden-brown top. While traditional spaghetti dishes are typically served straight from the stovetop, the Southern version involves layering spaghetti noodles with a savory meat sauce and cheese, then baking it to perfection in the oven. The result is a casserole-style dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd, meal prepping, or bringing to gatherings.

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Ingredients List for Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole

To make the ultimate Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole, gather the following ingredients:

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• ½ lb Italian sausage (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb spaghetti noodles
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for that Southern twist)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese (optional, for creaminess)
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• ½ cup sour cream (adds richness)
• 2 tablespoon butter

Optional Toppings:

• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• ½ cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs (for a crispy top)

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Substitutions and Variations for Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole

One of the best things about casseroles is how versatile they are! Here are some substitutions and variations to customize your Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole to suit your preferences:

Protein Substitutes:

• Ground turkey or chicken: Use these as a lighter alternative to ground beef or Italian sausage.
• Vegetarian version: Replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms, diced zucchini, or other vegetables. You can also use plant-based meat crumbles.
• Extra protein: Add in diced cooked chicken or even bacon for extra flavor and heartiness.

Cheese Variations:

• Cheese options: While mozzarella and cheddar are classics, feel free to add in Monterey Jack, provolone, or Gouda for a different cheese profile.
• Lighter version: Use low-fat mozzarella and cottage cheese to cut down on calories and fat without sacrificing flavor.

Sauce Variations:

• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage for a bit of heat.
• Herb boost: Add fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary for a more fragrant sauce.
• Creamier casserole: Mix in a bechamel sauce (white sauce) with the tomato sauce for an extra creamy baked spaghetti.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's go through the steps to make this delicious casserole.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti Noodles

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions, until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and toss with 2 tablespoons of butter to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Meat Sauce

1. Cook the meat: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef (and sausage if using) over medium heat until browned. Break up the meat as it cooks and drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onions and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Simmer the sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, sugar, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

• In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta or cottage cheese (if using), sour cream, eggs, and half of the Parmesan cheese. This will be the creamy layer that adds a delicious richness to the casserole.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. Layer the noodles: Place half of the cooked spaghetti noodles in an even layer at the bottom of the greased baking dish.
2. Add the cheese mixture: Spread the ricotta or cottage cheese mixture over the noodles.
3. Layer the meat sauce: Spoon half of the meat sauce over the cheese mixture.
4. Repeat layers: Add the remaining noodles on top of the sauce, followed by the rest of the meat sauce.
5. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the mozzarella, cheddar, and the remaining Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

• Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. If using breadcrumbs or crushed crackers, sprinkle them on during the last 10 minutes of baking for a crispy topping.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

• Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows it to firm up and makes it easier to slice into portions.

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

In summary, here’s a quick guide to follow:

1. Preheat the oven and cook the spaghetti until al dente.
2. Prepare the meat sauce by browning the meat and simmering with tomatoes and seasonings.
3. Make the cheese mixture by combining ricotta, sour cream, eggs, and Parmesan.
4. Layer the casserole with spaghetti, sauce, and cheeses.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
6. Rest and serve the delicious, cheesy baked spaghetti!

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the spaghetti: Be sure to cook the spaghetti just until al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
2. Not draining the meat: Make sure to drain the fat from the ground beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
3. Skipping the resting period: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to avoid it falling apart when you slice it.
4. Forgetting to season: Taste the sauce and cheese mixture as you go, adding salt and pepper as needed for maximum flavor.

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Serving and Presentation Tips for Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole

This casserole is rich and filling, so pairing it with lighter sides can balance out the meal.

How to Serve Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole:

• Family-style: Serve directly from the baking dish, allowing guests to help themselves.
• Portion control: Use a spatula to slice the casserole into square servings for easy plating.

Great Side Dishes:

• A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
• Garlic bread or breadsticks to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Roasted or steamed vegetables, such as green beans, broccoli, or asparagus.

Presentation Ideas:

• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds color and freshness.
• Serve in rustic dishes: Use cast-iron skillets or rustic baking dishes to give a Southern, homey vibe.
• Add a crispy topping: Crushed crackers or breadcrumbs add a lovely texture contrast.

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Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it, then bake it the next day for an easy, stress-free dinner.
• Freeze for later: This casserole freezes well! Assemble the casserole, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
• Leftover ideas: Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or oven. They also make a great filling for stuffed bell peppers!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great option for meal prep or parties.

Q: Can I freeze the casserole?
A: Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Q: What other cheeses can I use?
A: Besides mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan, you can experiment with provolone, Gouda, or even cream cheese for extra richness.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes! Simply omit the meat and add more vegetables, like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach, for a hearty vegetarian version.

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Conclusion

This Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole is the perfect combination of comfort food and Southern hospitality. With its rich layers of spaghetti, meat sauce, and cheese, it's sure to become a family favorite. Plus, the versatility of the recipe allows you to adjust it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Give it a try and let the cheesy, baked goodness warm your soul! Happy cooking!

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