Name: Easy Baked Spaghetti
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound spaghetti; 1/4 cup olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 small onion, diced; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes; 3 cups water; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus more for garnish); 2 cups mozzarella cheese; Grated parmesan cheese for serving

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Last updated on December 24, 2025

There’s something truly comforting about a warm dish of baked spaghetti straight from the oven—don’t you think? I still remember the first time I attempted to make baked spaghetti; I was a nervous wreck. I stood in the kitchen with boiling water on the stove, spaghetti noodles waiting to slip into it, and no idea if I’d follow the recipe correctly. As I dumped in more ingredients than I could count, I worried about flavors clashing and ruining my dinner. But the aroma that wafted through my home as it baked was enough to calm my fears. It filled the room with warmth and comfort, and I knew my family was in for a treat.

Cooking can be daunting, especially when it comes to something as beloved as baked spaghetti. The thought of undercooked pasta, ingredients that don’t blend, or even burning the top can send shivers down any beginner’s spine. But what if I told you that making an incredible, cozy baked spaghetti dish is not only simple but also stress-free? With the right guidance, it’ll be a breeze—much like a Sunday family dinner from your childhood.

Why I Love This Recipe of Easy Baked Spaghetti

This Easy Baked Spaghetti recipe holds a special place in my heart, not only for how easy it is but also for the shared memories that come with it. It’s one of those flexible dishes that can take center stage at a holiday gathering, a casual weeknight meal, or even a gathering with friends. The cozy nature of baked spaghetti brings people together, and it’s always a hit at the table.

What I adore most about this recipe is its simplicity. Beginner cooks will find it incredibly forgiving, allowing you to focus more on enjoying the cooking process and less on precision. This dish offers a warm, homey vibe, making it easy to share stories, laughter, and good foods with those you love. Plus, you can adapt it to fit any dietary needs or personal tastes, making it a versatile choice for busy weeknights.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Easy Baked Spaghetti

Before diving into cooking, let’s gather the ingredients for this fantastic baked spaghetti. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essentials:

1 pound spaghetti: The classic pasta choice for this dish. Spaghetti holds its shape well and absorbs the sauce beautifully.
1/4 cup olive oil: This adds a rich flavor and helps keep the spaghetti from sticking as it cooks.
3 garlic cloves, minced: A staple in Italian cooking, garlic provides a punch of flavor that elevates the dish.
1 small onion, diced: Onions add sweetness and depth to the dish.
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that brings an authentic Italian touch.
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Essential for enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients.
1 green bell pepper, diced: Adds a refreshing crunch and brightness to the dish.
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes: Provides a juicy, tangy base for the sauce.
3 cups water: Used to help the spaghetti cook and absorb flavor while it bakes.
2 cups marinara sauce: The key sauce that ties this dish together and makes it wonderfully flavorful.
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus more for garnish): A touch of fresh basil gives the dish a beautiful aroma and flavor.
2 cups mozzarella cheese: Melts into a bubbly, gooey topping that everyone loves.
Grated parmesan cheese for serving: A perfect finishing touch to sprinkle over each serving.

Optional Add-Ons:

You can customize this dish to include vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini, or incorporate shredded chicken or cooked ground beef for those who prefer added protein.

Substitutions and Shortcuts:

If you don’t have fresh basil, feel free to use dried basil instead—just reduce the amount since dried herbs are more potent.
For a gluten-free option, swap the spaghetti for gluten-free pasta.
You can also use store-bought marinara sauce to save time, but if you have an old family recipe, this could be the perfect opportunity to dust it off!

How to Make Easy Baked Spaghetti Step-by-Step

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s move on to the cooking part, which is the most exciting part! Here’s how to make Easy Baked Spaghetti step-by-step:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). It’s essential to get it nice and hot before you pop your dish in.

Step 2: Prepare the Dish

Take a 9 x 13-inch baking dish and spread the uncooked spaghetti evenly.

Step 3: Add the Base Flavors

To your spaghetti, add the olive oil, minced garlic, diced onion, Italian seasoning, and salt. Toss everything together gently until the spaghetti is evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.

Step 4: Incorporate the Veggies and Liquids

Next, chop up that green bell pepper and sprinkle it over your pasta. Then, add the can of diced tomatoes, 3 cups of water, marinara sauce, and fresh basil. Toss once again to ensure that all the spaghetti is coated in this delicious mixture.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 40 minutes to let the pasta absorb all those amazing flavors.

Step 6: Cheese It Up

When your timer goes off, carefully take the dish out. Give the spaghetti a gentle toss to break it up a bit, then sprinkle the mozzarella cheese generously on top.

Step 7: The Final Bake

Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Let it rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. To finish, sprinkle with extra fresh basil and a generous amount of grated parmesan cheese. Serve warm, and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this dish is super easy, there are a few pitfalls that new cooks often encounter. Here are some mistakes to avoid to ensure your Easy Baked Spaghetti turns out perfectly:

Using the Wrong Pasta

Choosing a pasta that isn’t suited for baking can lead to an undesirable texture. Spaghetti works well because it has the right surface area to absorb flavors. If you decide to experiment with another shape, be sure to adjust the cooking times—or stick to spaghetti for the most reliable results.

Not Prepping Your Ingredients

One mistake I’ve made in the past is not prepping my ingredients before starting. Measure and chop everything before you begin cooking. This makes the process go smoother and prevents any last-minute scrambling.

Skipping the Tossing Step

Be sure to toss the pasta well in between baking. Skipping this step can result in uneven cooking and flavors. You want to ensure that every noodle is coated and infused with flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Easy Baked Spaghetti

Now that your Easy Baked Spaghetti is ready, let’s talk about serving:

Pair It with a Fresh Salad

A light, crisp salad can balance the richness of the baked spaghetti. Consider a simple green salad topped with olive oil, vinegar, and whatever fresh veggies you have on hand.

Garlicky Bread is a Must

You can’t go wrong with some buttery garlic bread to accompany this meal. It’s perfect for soaking up any extra sauce that may have made its way to the bottom of the dish.

Wine or Sparkling Water

Consider serving it with a nice non-alcoholic sparkling water or a lovely grape juice for a touch of elegance. If you enjoy wine, a bold red pairs beautifully with pasta dishes.

Conclusion

From start to finish, creating Easy Baked Spaghetti is easier than it looks. It’s a dish that you can customize to your liking, whether that means adding more veggies, mixing in proteins, or simply piling on the cheese. Each bite is a warm embrace, making it a classic that is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

You’ll quickly realize that cooking doesn’t have to be intimidating. With a little guidance and love, you can whip up a meal that feels as good as it tastes. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and make memories over a delicious oven-baked dish that everyone will want to dig into time and again.

FAQs About Easy Baked Spaghetti

1. Can I use whole wheat spaghetti for Easy Baked Spaghetti?
Yes! Whole wheat spaghetti can be a great alternative if you’re looking for a healthier option. Just follow the same instructions and cooking times!

2. How long can I store leftovers of Easy Baked Spaghetti?
Leftover Easy Baked Spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to three months.

3. Can I make Easy Baked Spaghetti in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything and keep it in the refrigerator before baking. Just allow extra time for it to heat through when you bake it.

4. What if I don’t have marinara sauce?
If you’re out of marinara sauce, you can use any tomato-based sauce or even make a quick tomato sauce by blending canned tomatoes with some seasonings.

5. Can I add meat to Easy Baked Spaghetti?
Yes! You can easily add cooked ground beef, turkey, or even shredded chicken to the dish for extra protein. Just mix it in with the pasta before baking.