Easy Baked Spaghetti
I made two of these casseroles while preparing freezer meals for our busy days, but my family loved it so much there was nothing left to freeze. It’s that good. Comforting, flavorful, and easy to prep—all the things you need during the whirlwind of motherhood.
Admittedly, spaghetti has never been my favorite meal but this juzhed up version is something else. The creamy layers, gooey cheese, and cozy Italian herbs make it next level. A simple, wholesome dinner that feels just a little bit special.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Spaghetti
One of my favorite things about dinners like this is how they anchor our days. Even the simplest meals become sacred when you set the table, turn on a cozy playlist, and just… sit. We used a fun Italian one you can find here: The Perfect Italian Dinner Playlist
- Freezer Friendly: Make ahead and freeze for busy seasons like postpartum, new baby meals, or hectic back-to-school nights.
- Family Favorite: Kid-approved and husband-approved.
- Wholesome & Satisfying: Full of protein, hearty pasta, and real ingredients.
- Easy to Elevate: Add candles, a playlist, and a tablecloth for a meal that feels like a tradition.
Baked Spaghetti Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 (24–32 oz) jar of pasta sauce
- 16 oz pasta
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- (Optional) 1 cup shredded mozzarella
Instructions
- Sauté the Base
In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onion and minced garlic in a bit of olive oil. Add ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in oregano, basil, and Italian seasoning. Pour in the pasta sauce and let simmer while you prep the pasta. - Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of water to boil. Add 1 tsp salt and 1 tbsp olive oil. Boil pasta until just al dente, then drain well. - Mix & Layer
While pasta is still hot, stir in butter, Parmesan, and beaten eggs—mix quickly so the eggs don’t scramble. Press this mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish. - Assemble the Casserole
Spread cottage cheese evenly over the noodles. Ladle the warm meat sauce over the top. Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes. - Add the Finishing Touch
Sprinkle with mozzarella and return to the oven for another 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Serve alongside:
- Grilled zucchini
- A crisp green salad
- Warm, crusty bread
Easy Baked Spaghetti
Ingredients
- ½ onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 (24–32 oz) jar of pasta sauce
- 16 oz pasta
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- (Optional) 1 cup shredded mozzarella
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté diced onion and minced garlic in a bit of olive oil. Add ground meat and spices and cook until browned. Pour in the pasta sauce and let simmer while you prep the pasta.
- Bring a large pot of water to boil. Add 1 tsp salt and 1 tbsp olive oil. Boil pasta until just al dente, then drain well.
- While pasta is still hot, stir in butter, Parmesan, and beaten eggs—mix quickly so the eggs don’t scramble. Press this mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish.
- Spread cottage cheese evenly over the noodles. Ladle the warm meat sauce over the top. Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella and return to the oven for another 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
This baked spaghetti is the kind of meal that gets passed down and repeated—easy enough for a weeknight, special enough for family memories. Don’t forget to light a candle and make a moment of it. This is a modified version but the original recipe I found in The Lifegiving Table by my fav mentor, Sally Clarkson.
Follow along on IG for more wholesome, family-friendly meals—plus tips for meal prep, postpartum recovery, and creating a life giving home one dinner at a time.
