Ultimate Cheesy Spaghetti Dinner Recipe

Are you craving a satisfying and indulgent dinner that’s perfect for the entire family? Look no further than this Cheesy Spaghetti Dinner recipe! Packed with savory flavors, gooey cheese, and classic spaghetti, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide to creating your new favorite comfort food.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Spaghetti Dinner

Spaghetti and Sauce:

• 1 lb (16 oz) spaghetti, cooked al dente
• 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage for extra flavor)
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or your favorite pasta sauce)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cheese Layer:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

Sides (Optional):

• Garlic bread or dinner rolls
• Corn salad or roasted vegetables
• Mixed green salad with ranch or Italian dressing

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Spaghetti and Sauce

1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or sausage) until browned. Drain excess grease.
3. Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 10-15 minutes.

2. Create the Cheese Mixture

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy.
2. Stir in chopped parsley for a fresh burst of flavor.

3. Assemble the Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the cooked spaghetti evenly at the bottom.
3. Pour the meat sauce over the spaghetti, spreading it evenly.
4. Dollop the cheese mixture over the sauce, smoothing it out gently with a spatula.
5. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella on top for a golden, cheesy finish.

4. Bake to Perfection

1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
3. Garnish with extra parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Cheesy Spaghetti Dinner with buttery garlic bread, a fresh garden salad, and seasoned corn for the ultimate feast. The combination of creamy, cheesy spaghetti and savory sides will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite

This recipe is a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and cheesy goodness. The layers of spaghetti, rich meat sauce, and melted cheese create a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare yet feels gourmet. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or feeding a crowd, this dish is versatile and sure to impress.

Tips and Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Add Extra Cheese: Mix in shredded cheddar or provolone for an even cheesier dish.
• Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or hot Italian sausage to the sauce for an extra kick.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Assemble the dish a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.

Ultimate Cheesy Spaghetti Dinner Recipe

With this Cheesy Spaghetti Dinner recipe, you’ll have a go-to dish for any occasion. Try it today, and enjoy the delicious combination of comforting flavors and textures that make this meal unforgettable!