Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying dish that brings a touch of Southern charm to your dinner table. This recipe combines the savory flavors of a traditional spaghetti bake with a twist of homestyle comfort, creating a meal that's perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy dinner at home. If you're looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that's easy to make and packed with flavor, you've come to the right place. Read on for a detailed, step-by-step guide to mastering this classic recipe!

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What is Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole?

Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a delicious fusion of pasta, ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese baked to perfection in the oven. It takes the concept of traditional spaghetti to another level by layering flavors and ingredients, creating a dish that is both filling and full of Southern flair. This casserole is known for its creamy texture, cheesy top, and savory layers, making it a favorite comfort food in many households.

Ingredients List for Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole

To make a delicious Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole, you will need the following ingredients:

• 12 ounces of spaghetti (uncooked)
• 1 pound of ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jar (24 ounces) of marinara or spaghetti sauce
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon of salt
• ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
• 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup of sour cream
• ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Additional Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor

For those who want to elevate their Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole to a whole new level, consider adding these optional ingredients:

• ½ cup of green bell pepper, chopped
• ½ cup of mushrooms, sliced
• ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
• ½ teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce (adds a savory depth to the meat)
• ¼ cup of black olives, sliced (for an extra layer of flavor)

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily modify the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some great substitutions and variations:

• Ground Meat: Swap out the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage for a lighter or more flavorful option.
• Pasta: You can use whole wheat pasta, gluten-free spaghetti, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.
• Cheese: Try using other types of cheese like Monterey Jack, provolone, or even pepper jack if you enjoy a bit of spice.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat altogether and load up with vegetables like spinach, zucchini, and bell peppers for a veggie-packed casserole.
• Vegan Option: Use dairy-free cheese and vegan cream cheese along with plant-based ground meat alternatives to make this dish completely vegan-friendly.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole that will impress your family and friends.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Meat Sauce

• In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
• Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and green bell pepper (if using) to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
• Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to combine all the flavors.

Step 4: Mix the Creamy Layer

• In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Layer the Casserole

• In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the cooked spaghetti at the bottom.
• Spread the creamy cheese mixture evenly over the pasta.
• Add a layer of the meat sauce on top of the cheese mixture.
• Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, meat sauce, and finally top with shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

• Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Make sure your spaghetti is cooked to al dente to avoid it becoming mushy after baking.
• Skipping the Creamy Layer: The creamy cheese mixture is what sets this recipe apart, so don’t skip this step!
• Not Draining the Meat: Excess fat can make your casserole greasy, so always drain the meat thoroughly.
• Under-Seasoning: Taste the sauce before layering it to ensure it’s well-seasoned, as the pasta and cheese can mellow the flavors.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How you serve your Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole can make a big difference in its appeal. Here are some tips to make it look as delicious as it tastes.

How to Serve Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole

• Serve this dish directly from the baking dish at the dinner table for a family-style presentation.
• Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a Caesar salad to complement the rich flavors of the casserole.
• For an elegant touch, add a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top right before serving.

Presentation Ideas for Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole

• Garnish with a few sprigs of fresh basil or parsley to add a pop of color to the dish.
• Serve individual portions in rustic-style bowls or plates for a warm, homey feel.
• For a festive look, you can also use a decorative casserole dish that matches the theme of your dinner setting.

Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before putting it in the oven.
• Freezing Tips: This casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.
• Leftover Magic: Leftovers taste even better the next day! Store in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use penne, rigatoni, or any other pasta that holds up well in baking.

Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Substitute the regular spaghetti with your favorite gluten-free pasta, and make sure your marinara sauce is gluten-free as well.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
A: Yes, adding veggies like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms is a great way to boost the nutritional value of the dish.

Q: How long will the leftovers last?
A: Leftover Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Conclusion

Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole is the perfect dish for those who crave the comfort of a warm, cheesy pasta bake with a Southern twist. With its layers of creamy cheese, savory meat sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Try it out, experiment with variations, and make it your own!

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