Paula Deen Baked Spaghetti Recipe

The Paula Deen Baked Spaghetti Recipe is a warm, cheesy and comforting dinner. It combines pasta, rich meat sauce and melted cheese.

Everything bakes together in one dish. Many families love this Paula Deen Baked Spaghetti Recipe because it is easy and filling. It is perfect for weeknight meals or family gatherings.

In this guide, you will learn how to make Paula Deen Baked Spaghetti step by step. The ingredients for Paula Deen Baked Spaghetti are simple and easy to find.

My Experience With This Recipe

I first made the Paula Deen Baked Spaghetti Recipe on a busy weekend. I wanted something comforting and easy.

The dish came out rich and cheesy. The pasta soaked up the flavorful meat sauce perfectly. My family loved the melted cheese layer on top.

It became golden and bubbly in the oven. Now I often make this recipe when I want a warm and satisfying meal. It is simple and always delicious.

Recipe Card info

• Recipe Name: Paula Deen Baked Spaghetti Recipe
• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 35 mins
• Total Time: 50 mins
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American-Italian
• Calories: 460 kcal per serving

Equipment List

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Colander
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Oven

Ingredients You Need for Paula Deen Baked Spaghetti

• 12 oz spaghetti pasta
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti

Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add salt and spaghetti. Cook until tender according to package directions. Drain well and set aside.

2. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This helps prevent the spaghetti from sticking during baking.

3. Cook the Ground Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Break it into small pieces with a spoon.

4. Add Onion and Garlic

Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about three minutes. Stir often until the onion becomes soft and fragrant.

5. Add the Sauce

Pour marinara sauce into the skillet with the beef mixture. Add Italian seasoning, salt and black pepper. Stir well and simmer for five minutes.

6. Mix Spaghetti and Sauce

Place the cooked spaghetti into a large bowl. Add half of the meat sauce. Toss gently until the pasta is evenly coated.

7. Layer the Casserole

Spread the spaghetti mixture in the prepared baking dish. Add small spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over the pasta. This creates a creamy layer inside the dish.

8. Add More Sauce

Pour the remaining meat sauce evenly over the spaghetti. Spread it gently with a spoon so the sauce covers the pasta completely.

9. Add the Cheese Topping

Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly on top. The cheese will melt and create a golden, bubbly layer while baking.

10. Bake the Spaghetti

Place the baking dish in the oven. Bake for about 25–30 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes slightly golden.

Recipe Tips

• Cook pasta slightly firm so it does not become soft while baking.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
• Add red pepper flakes for a spicy flavor.
• Let the dish rest five minutes before serving.
• Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	460 kcal
Protein	25 g
Carbohydrates	38 g
Fat	23 g
Fiber	3 g
Sodium	640 mg

Serving Suggestions

The Paula Deen Baked Spaghetti Recipe tastes best when served warm and fresh from the oven. The melted cheese and rich sauce make it very comforting.

I like adding fresh basil or parsley on top for extra flavor. This dish is great for family dinners, potlucks or weekend meals. It is filling and satisfying, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Best Sides To Serve With

• Garlic bread
• Fresh green salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Caesar salad
• Tomato soup

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover baked spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to three days.

To reheat, place a portion in the microwave for about two minutes. Stir halfway to heat evenly. You can also reheat it in the oven at 325°F for about 10–15 minutes. Add a small splash of water or sauce before reheating to keep the pasta moist.

FAQs about Paula Deen Baked Spaghetti Recipe

1. Can I make Paula Deen Baked Spaghetti ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole earlier in the day. Cover it and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it later when ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze baked spaghetti?
Yes, baked spaghetti freezes well. Place it in a freezer-safe container and store it for up to two months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

3. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, you can add mushrooms, bell peppers or spinach. These ingredients add flavor and extra nutrition to the dish.

4. What cheese works best for baked spaghetti?
Mozzarella melts beautifully and gives a stretchy texture. Parmesan adds a salty flavor. Ricotta creates a creamy layer inside the casserole.

5. Can I use different pasta instead of spaghetti?
Yes, you can use penne, rotini or rigatoni. These pasta shapes hold sauce well and work great in baked casseroles.

Conclusion

The Paula Deen Baked Spaghetti Recipe is a simple and comforting meal that everyone loves. It combines pasta, rich meat sauce and melted cheese in one delicious dish.

Now you know how to make Paula Deen Baked Spaghetti at home. The ingredients for Paula Deen Baked Spaghetti are simple and easy to find.

Try this recipe for your next family dinner. It is warm, filling and always a crowd favorite.