Name: Cheesy Baked Beef Spaghetti Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients: 300g spaghetti; 400g ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cups tomato sauce or marinara; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; 1 cup ricotta or cream cheese; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated; Optional: fresh parsley or basil

I love making this cheesy baked beef spaghetti casserole when I want a warm, hearty dish that feels like pure comfort food. It combines tender pasta, rich beef sauce, and melted cheese into one satisfying bake that always brings everyone back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy how this casserole is both easy to prepare and incredibly filling. The layers of spaghetti and savory beef sauce come together perfectly with gooey melted cheese on top. I also like how it is great for feeding a crowd or preparing ahead for busy days.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

spaghetti
ground beef
onion, chopped
garlic, minced
olive oil
tomato sauce or marinara
tomato paste
italian seasoning
salt
black pepper

ricotta or cream cheese
sour cream
mozzarella cheese, shredded
cheddar cheese, shredded
parmesan cheese, grated

optional:
fresh parsley or basil

Directions

I start by cooking the spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente, then I drain and set it aside.

In a large pan, I heat olive oil and cook the chopped onion until soft. I add the garlic and cook briefly, then add the ground beef and cook until browned. I stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and seasonings, letting the mixture simmer for about 10–15 minutes.

In a bowl, I mix the ricotta or cream cheese with sour cream until smooth.

To assemble, I combine the cooked spaghetti with part of the cheese mixture, then layer it into a baking dish. I add the beef sauce on top, followed by the remaining cheese mixture. I finish with a generous layer of mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan cheese.

I bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. I let it rest slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Preparation time is around 20 minutes.
Cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Total time is approximately 50 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to the beef sauce for extra flavor. When I want a lighter version, I use ground turkey instead of beef. I also like adding a bit of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through. I can also freeze it for up to 2 months and reheat when needed.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

I assemble the casserole ahead and refrigerate it until I am ready to bake.

Can I use a different pasta?

I use penne or rigatoni if I do not have spaghetti.

How do I keep it from drying out?

I make sure there is enough sauce and cover it loosely if needed during baking.

Can I freeze this casserole?

I freeze it before or after baking, and it reheats well.

What cheese works best?

I like a mix of mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan for the best flavor and texture.

Conclusion

I find this cheesy baked beef spaghetti casserole to be the ultimate comfort meal. It is rich, filling, and easy to prepare, making it perfect for family dinners or whenever I want something warm and satisfying.