Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

If you're a fan of Southern cuisine or just looking for a hearty and comforting dish, this Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole is the perfect recipe for you! Loaded with rich flavors, gooey cheese, and savory ground beef, this dish is a perfect blend of Southern comfort and Italian-inspired goodness. In this article, we'll break down everything you need to know about preparing this delectable casserole. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner, a potluck, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to please. Read on for all the details, including tips, substitutions, and presentation ideas to make your dish truly shine!

What Is Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole?

Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a flavorful and hearty dish that combines cooked spaghetti noodles, a rich meat sauce, and plenty of cheese. Unlike the classic Italian spaghetti, which is typically served with sauce poured over the noodles, this Southern version is baked in a casserole dish, allowing all the ingredients to meld together into a warm, cheesy, and satisfying meal. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible, making this dish a staple for gatherings, family dinners, and potlucks.

Ingredients List for Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole

To get started with this Southern comfort dish, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti noodles (uncooked)
• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 small onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 can (24 oz) marinara sauce (or your favorite spaghetti sauce)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for extra Southern flair)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
• Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about this Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole is that it can be adapted to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Here are a few substitution and variation ideas to keep in mind:

• Protein alternatives: If you prefer something lighter than ground beef, try ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian option, use a plant-based meat substitute or add extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
• Cheese options: While mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan are common choices, you can mix things up with Monterey Jack, gouda, or even ricotta cheese for a creamier texture.
• Gluten-free: Simply substitute regular spaghetti noodles with a gluten-free variety. You can also experiment with vegetable noodles like zucchini or spaghetti squash.
• Lower fat: Swap out sour cream for Greek yogurt to reduce the fat content while still maintaining a creamy texture.
• Spice level: If you enjoy a little heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add some chopped jalapeños to the meat sauce.

Feel free to get creative and make this casserole your own!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that we have the ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this delicious Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole.

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

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

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once the meat is fully browned, drain any excess fat.

Next, stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer on low for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light coating of olive oil.

Start by spreading a small amount of the meat sauce at the bottom of the dish. Add a layer of cooked spaghetti on top of the sauce. Spread half of the sour cream over the spaghetti, then sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Repeat this layering process one more time, finishing with a generous topping of the Parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly on top.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is out of the oven, let it sit for 5-10 minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color and flavor. Your Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole is now ready to serve!

How to Cook Southern Baked Spaghetti: A Step-by-Step Guide

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• Brown the ground beef with onions and garlic, then add marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, and seasonings.
• Layer the dish with spaghetti, meat sauce, sour cream, and cheeses.
• Bake covered for 25-30 minutes, then uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes.
• Garnish and serve after letting the casserole sit for a few minutes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the pasta: Make sure to cook your spaghetti al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked pasta can become mushy during baking.
2. Skipping the seasoning: Don’t skimp on the Italian seasoning and basil. These herbs add depth to the dish, and the sauce can taste bland without them.
3. Not draining excess fat: If you're using ground beef, be sure to drain any excess fat to prevent your casserole from becoming greasy.
4. Forgetting to cover the casserole: Covering the dish with foil for the first part of the baking time ensures that the cheese doesn’t brown too quickly before the dish is fully heated through.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a dish that practically serves itself, but with a few presentation tips, you can take it to the next level.

• Individual servings: Cut the casserole into individual squares for easy serving. Use a spatula to carefully lift each piece.
• Garnish with herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil not only adds color but also enhances the flavor of the casserole.
• Side dishes: Serve the casserole alongside a fresh green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. For a Southern twist, you could even pair it with cornbread!

Presentation Ideas for Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole

• Family-style serving: Serve the casserole in the dish it was baked in, allowing guests to scoop out their portions at the table.
• Cast-iron skillet: For a rustic look, consider baking the casserole in a cast-iron skillet. This not only enhances the presentation but also keeps the dish warm longer.

Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: You can prepare this casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it well with foil.
• Freezing the casserole: This dish also freezes beautifully. Assemble the casserole as directed, but before baking, cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as usual.
• Add vegetables: Want to sneak in some veggies? Try adding chopped spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the sauce for an extra boost of nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like, but spaghetti or similar long noodles are traditional. Penne, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni would work well.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or rewarm the entire dish in the oven.

Can I make this casserole spicy?
Absolutely! Add more red pepper flakes, or even a chopped jalapeño, to the sauce for an extra kick.

What can I serve with Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole?
This dish pairs well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich flavors of a meaty sauce, pasta, and melted cheese all baked into a delicious dish. Whether you're feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. With tips for substitutions, variations, and make-ahead options, it's a versatile dish that you can easily adapt to suit your taste. Give it a try today, and savor the deliciousness of Southern-style comfort!

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