If you’re craving a warm, comforting dish that feels like a hug on a plate, you have to try this Baked Spasagna Recipe. It’s an incredibly satisfying twist combining the best of spaghetti and lasagna into one cheesy, saucy masterpiece. Layers of creamy cheese-coated spaghetti topped with rich, savory meat sauce bake together perfectly, creating a dish everyone will ask you to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential to bring the Baked Spasagna Recipe to life. Each one plays a distinct role, from the creamy cheeses that provide luscious texture to the Italian sausage adding a rich, hearty flavor, and the herbs that give it that classic Italian aroma.
- 24 oz spaghetti: The star starch that holds all the cheesy goodness and sauce together perfectly.
- 4 (8-oz) packages shredded mozzarella cheese: A full two pounds of mozzarella ensures melty, gooey layers throughout.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Brings creaminess and a little tang to balance the rich cheeses.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds a velvety texture and subtle tanginess, blending beautifully with the ricotta.
- 1¼ cups half-and-half: Helps to create a luscious sauce that coats the spaghetti evenly.
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese, divided: Provides a sharp, salty punch layered inside and on top for flavor and browning.
- 1 tsp oregano: Infuses the dish with an earthy, aromatic note that’s quintessentially Italian.
- 1 tsp basil: Adds brightness and freshness to balance the rich cheeses and meats.
- ½ tsp pepper: Just enough to give a gentle kick without overwhelming the flavors.
- 1 tsp minced garlic: Lends warmth and savory depth to the cheese sauce.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances all flavors, making the dish well-rounded and delicious.
- 1 (26-oz) jar spaghetti sauce: A hearty, flavorful tomato base that brings all the components together.
- 1 lb Italian sausage or ground beef: Adds savory richness and texture to the meat sauce topping.
How to Make Baked Spasagna Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Cook Spaghetti
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF so it’s ready to bake your creation to bubbly perfection. Cook the spaghetti according to its package directions until al dente, then drain well. This ensures the pasta holds shape but remains tender after baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, lovingly combine sour cream, ricotta, half-and-half, shredded mozzarella, oregano, basil, black pepper, minced garlic, salt, and half of the parmesan cheese. This mixture is the soul of your baked spasagna, creating a rich, creamy coating for every strand of spaghetti. Toss in the cooled spaghetti until it’s thoroughly coated — every bite should have that creamy, cheesy goodness.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking, then pour in the cheesy spaghetti mixture. Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese evenly over the top for that golden, flavorful crust. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes, letting all those flavors meld together.
Step 4: Make the Meat Sauce
While the baked spaghetti is gently cooking in the oven, brown your Italian sausage or ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat, then return the meat to the pan. Pour in the jar of spaghetti sauce and allow it to simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, developing a rich, savory topping for your baked dish.
Step 5: Serve It Up
Once the baked spasagna has come out of the oven, cut it into squares right in the dish. Spoon a generous dollop of the warm meat sauce on top of each portion, and sprinkle with additional grated parmesan for an irresistible finish.
How to Serve Baked Spasagna Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped basil or parsley brighten every bite and add a vibrant green contrast to the cheesy, saucy baked spasagna. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a lovely kick if you like a bit of heat.
Side Dishes
Light, simple sides like a crisp Caesar salad or garlic bread balance the richness of the dish beautifully. Roasted vegetables such as asparagus or zucchini also complement the hearty flavors without overwhelming them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving individual portions in ramekins, layering the pasta and sauce within. You can also add a drizzle of basil pesto on top to create colorful, aromatic swirls that impress guests and elevate the presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover baked spasagna in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making cold or reheated portions just as delightful.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer portions into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months—perfect for busy weeknights when you need a comforting dinner ready in minutes.
Reheating
To reheat, bake leftovers covered with foil at 350ºF until hot, around 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave single servings covered with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in, heating in 1-2 minute intervals.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free pasta for the Baked Spasagna Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to follow the cooking instructions for your gluten-free spaghetti to ensure it holds up well in the bake.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can skip the Italian sausage and use sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils to add hearty flavor without meat.
Can I prepare the cheese mixture and pasta ahead of time?
Definitely. Prepare and toss the spaghetti with the cheese mixture a day ahead, then refrigerate. Assemble and bake just before serving for convenience.
What’s the best type of spaghetti sauce to use?
Choose a high-quality, flavorful tomato sauce, preferably one seasoned with herbs like basil and oregano to complement the cheeses and meat.
How can I make the Baked Spasagna Recipe less rich?
Try using part-skim mozzarella and reduce the amount of sour cream or half-and-half. Adding some steamed veggies can also lighten the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Spasagna Recipe is a total winner—a comforting, cheesy, hearty dish that fits perfectly into any weeknight or special occasion dinner. Once you dive into its creamy layers and savory sauce, you’ll understand why it’s become a personal favorite for so many. Trust me, you want this one in your recipe rotation!
Print
Baked Spasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Baked Spasagna is a comforting and hearty casserole that combines spaghetti with a creamy cheese mixture, baked to golden perfection and topped with a savory Italian sausage and spaghetti sauce. This layered pasta bake is perfect for family dinners and serves 8 generously.
Ingredients
Pasta and Cheese Mixture
- 24 oz spaghetti
- 4 (8-oz) packages shredded mozzarella cheese (2 lbs total)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1¼ cups half-and-half
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp basil
- ½ tsp pepper
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp salt
Meat Sauce
- 1 (26-oz) jar spaghetti sauce
- 1 lb Italian sausage or ground beef
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature while you prep the other ingredients.
- Cook Spaghetti: Boil the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- Mix Cheese and Seasonings: In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, ricotta cheese, half-and-half, shredded mozzarella, oregano, basil, pepper, minced garlic, salt, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and well blended.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese Mixture: Add the cooked spaghetti to the cheese mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure the pasta is completely coated.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Pour the spaghetti and cheese mixture into the dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top for a crispy cheesy crust.
- Bake Pasta: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
- Prepare Meat Sauce: While the pasta bakes, brown the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat, then return the sausage to the skillet. Add the jar of spaghetti sauce and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes to develop flavor and heat the sauce thoroughly.
- Serve: Remove the baked pasta from the oven and cut into squares. Top each serving with a generous spoonful of the Italian sausage meat sauce. Optionally, sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese over each portion before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef for Italian sausage for a different flavor.
- Use part-skim mozzarella to reduce fat content.
- To make this dish ahead, assemble it completely, refrigerate covered, and bake within one day.
- For a spicier kick, use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
