Southern Baked Spaghetti Recipe
Try this Southern Baked Spaghetti Recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Southern Baked Spaghetti Recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 small onion chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp celery salt
- 1/2 tsp italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp pepper
- 8 oz cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp basil
- 28 oz can diced tomatoes
- 8 oz monterey jack cheese
- 28 oz can tomato sauce
- 2 crushed garlic cloves
- 8 oz sliced pepperoni
- 12 oz box of spaghetti or angel hair pasta- i use gluten
- Carbohydrate 8.7044713015606 g
- Cholesterol 107.917184646 mg
- Fat 31.9464334361464 g
- Fiber 2.15060818861182 g
- Protein 29.3427416781812 g
- Saturated Fat 14.8827274918682 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (322g)
- Sodium 932.339540106468 mg
- Sugar 6.55386311294878 g
- Trans Fat 3.93987603675047 g
- Calories 440 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large stock pot, cook tomatoes, tomato sauce, onion, bell pepper, garlic, basil, Italian seasoning, oregano, celery salt, salt, pepper, and brown sugar at medium heat and bring to a boil.
- Cover, then reduce heat and simmer for one hour.
- Crumble and cook ground beef.
- Add ground beef and water to stock pot and cook an additional 20 minutes.
- Cook pasta noodles according to directions.
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- In large 13x9 in pan lightly cover pan with meat sauce. About a ½ cup.
- Add ½ pasta noodles.
- Layer half of meat sauce.
- Layer Monterey Jack cheese.
- Layer remaining pasta noodles.
- Layer remaining meat sauce.
- Layer Cheddar Cheese.
- Cover cheese with pepperoni slices.
- Bake in oven for 30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly and pepperoni is crispy.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes, then serve in squares.
Southern Baked Spaghetti: A Comfort Food Classic
This Southern Baked Spaghetti recipe isn't just a meal; it's a warm hug on a plate. As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious, satisfying dinner that the whole family will love is a constant juggling act. This recipe is my go-to when I need something hearty and comforting, yet surprisingly easy to assemble. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity; it's a perfect blend of familiar flavors that come together beautifully.
The rich tomato sauce, simmered to perfection, forms the heart of this dish. I love the way the sweetness of the brown sugar balances the savory notes of the garlic, oregano, and basil. The ground beef adds a hearty protein boost, and the pasta provides a satisfying base. But it's the layers of melted Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese, topped with crispy pepperoni, that truly elevate this dish to another level. The gooey, cheesy goodness is simply irresistible!
One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese – provolone or mozzarella would also be delicious. You can also adjust the spice level to your liking by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. And if you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. No matter how you make it, this Southern Baked Spaghetti recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
This dish is perfect for meal prepping. I often double the recipe and freeze half for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed. It's also a crowd-pleaser for potlucks and gatherings; the large casserole dish makes it easy to transport and serve.
Beyond the Recipe: Memories and Meaning
This recipe isn't just about the ingredients; it’s about the memories it evokes. The aroma of simmering tomato sauce, the satisfying bubbling of the cheese, the happy chatter around the dinner table – these are the moments that make food more than just sustenance. It's about creating shared experiences and strengthening family bonds, one delicious bite at a time. It's about passing down traditions and creating new memories that will last a lifetime. The simple act of sharing a meal together, enjoying a taste of home, is a valuable ritual in our busy lives.
I remember making this recipe with my grandmother when I was a little girl. It was always a special occasion, a time for laughter and stories. The kitchen was filled with warmth and the scent of simmering tomatoes, and the finished product was always met with delighted sighs and satisfied smiles. Now, years later, I find myself sharing this same recipe with my own children, creating new memories and continuing a cherished family tradition.
This Southern Baked Spaghetti represents more than just a delicious meal; it's a testament to the power of family, tradition, and the simple joys of home-cooked food. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and let it transport you to a place of comfort, warmth, and shared happiness. You might just find yourself making new memories of your own.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, brown the ground beef with a little bit of onion before adding it to the sauce.
- Add a can of drained and rinsed black beans for extra protein and fiber.
- Use different types of pasta, such as rotini or penne.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
- Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Enjoy this taste of Southern comfort, and let me know what you think in the comments below! Happy cooking!
