Million Dollar Cheesy Pasta Bake (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Pasta
01 -
450g spaghetti
→ Meat
02 -
450g ground beef
→ Produce
03 -
1 medium onion, diced
04 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
05 -
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
→ Dairy
06 -
425g ricotta cheese
07 -
225g shredded mozzarella cheese
08 -
50g grated Parmesan cheese
→ Pantry
09 -
800g can crushed tomatoes
10 -
2 tbsp olive oil
11 -
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
12 -
1 tsp salt
13 -
1/2 tsp black pepper
# Instructions:
01 -
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
02 -
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and garlic until onion is translucent. Add ground beef and cook until thoroughly browned. Drain excess fat from the pan.
03 -
Add crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the meat mixture. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes to develop flavors.
04 -
In a separate bowl, season the ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper, mixing until smooth.
05 -
Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). In a large baking dish, layer half of the cooked spaghetti, followed by half of the meat sauce, dollops of the ricotta mixture, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat layering with remaining spaghetti, meat sauce, and top with remaining mozzarella and all of the Parmesan cheese.
06 -
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
07 -
Remove from oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, then slice and serve hot.
# Notes:
01 -
This casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated before baking.
02 -
For a spicier version, add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.