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Cozy Spaghetti Pizza Casserole

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A comforting and easy casserole that combines the flavors of pizza and spaghetti into one cheesy, savory dish perfect for cozy nights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces spaghetti pasta, cooked al dente
  • 3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 8 ounces ground beef or Italian sausage, browned and drained (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add 8 ounces ground beef or Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. In a large bowl, combine cooked spaghetti with 3 cups marinara sauce, the browned meat mixture, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Stir gently to coat evenly.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
  6. Spread half the spaghetti and sauce mixture evenly on the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the first layer.
  7. Repeat with remaining spaghetti, sauce, and cheese layers.
  8. Sprinkle 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
  9. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
  10. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta as it will finish cooking in the oven. Use freshly shredded cheese for better melt and texture. Let the casserole rest before serving to firm up for easier slicing. For a crispier top, broil for the last 2 minutes watching carefully to avoid burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: spaghetti casserole, pizza casserole, cheesy casserole, easy dinner, comfort food, baked pasta, mozzarella, marinara, Italian seasoning

Find it online: https://larameals.com/cozy-spaghetti-pizza-casserole-recipe-easy-cheesy-dinner-idea/