Ret Soup
Introduction
Celebrate Valentine’s Day in 2025 with a delightful twist on classic spaghetti that will surely warm hearts and fill stomachs. This simple yet delicious Baked Love Spaghetti brings together the comfort of spaghetti in a single dish, making it perfect for sharing with your loved ones.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Spaghetti: 400 grams
Marinara sauce: 500 ml
Ground beef: 250 grams
Onion, chopped: 100 grams
Garlic cloves, minced: 10 grams
Mozzarella cheese, shredded: 200 grams
Parmesan cheese, grated: 100 grams
Olive oil: 15 ml
Salt: 5 grams
Black pepper: 3 grams
Dried Italian herbs: 5 grams
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish: a handful
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sauté until the onions are translucent.
4. Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until browned. Season with salt, black pepper, and dried Italian herbs.
5. Pour the marinara sauce into the beef mixture and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked spaghetti, spreading it evenly.
7. Spoon half of the meat sauce over the spaghetti, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese.
8. Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
9. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sauté until the onions are translucent.
Step 4: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until browned. Season with salt, black pepper, and dried Italian herbs.
Step 5: Simmer the Marinara Sauce
Pour the marinara sauce into the beef mixture and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 6: Layer the Spaghetti
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the cooked spaghetti, spreading it evenly.
Step 7: Add the Meat Sauce
Spoon half of the meat sauce over the spaghetti, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese.
Step 8: Repeat Layers
Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese.
Step 9: Top with Parmesan Cheese
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 10: Bake the Dish
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 11: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
Tip for Cooking Spaghetti
Ensure that the spaghetti is cooked al dente to maintain its texture after baking.
Meat Substitute
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a vegetarian alternative if preferred.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Option
This dish can be frozen before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil and store it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the Baked Love Spaghetti with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration
Allow the Baked Love Spaghetti to cool to room temperature before storing. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
To freeze, ensure the spaghetti has cooled completely. Place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 180°C (350°F) until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
Baked Love Spaghetti pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad. Consider serving it alongside a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette. Garlic bread or breadsticks are excellent accompaniments, perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce. For a romantic touch, add a glass of red wine to complement the meal.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Baked Love Spaghetti (based on 6 servings) contains approximately:
– Calories: 570
– Protein: 30g
– Total Fat: 24g
– Saturated Fat: 10g
– Carbohydrates: 62g
– Dietary Fiber: 3g
– Sugars: 5g
– Sodium: 780mg
This information may vary based on specific ingredient brands and preparation methods.
Ingredient Substitutions
– **Ground Beef**: Substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.
– **Marinara Sauce**: Use a homemade tomato sauce or a store-bought alternative. Consider adding extra herbs or spices to enhance flavor.
– **Cheese**: Swap mozzarella for provolone or cheddar for a different cheese flavor. Nutritional yeast can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
– **Pasta**: Use whole wheat spaghetti or gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary preferences.
– **Herbs**: Fresh Italian herbs can replace dried herbs for a more vibrant taste.
Cook techniques
Boiling Pasta
Boiling spaghetti is essential for achieving the right texture. Follow package instructions and ensure you cook until al dente for the perfect bite.
Sautéing
Sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil enhances their flavors. Cook until the onions become translucent for a fragrant base for your meat sauce.
Browning Meat
Browning ground beef adds depth to the flavor. Ensure the meat is cooked thoroughly before mixing in the marinara sauce.
Layering
Layering the spaghetti, meat sauce, and cheeses creates a beautiful and cohesive dish. Be sure to spread each layer evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
Baking
Baking the assembled spaghetti allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to melt and bubble. Keep an eye on it to achieve a golden, bubbly top without overcooking.
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat spaghetti?
Yes, whole wheat spaghetti can be used as a healthier alternative and will work well in this baked dish.
Can I substitute the ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute can be used to accommodate dietary preferences.
How can I make it vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, omit the ground beef and consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms instead.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the baked spaghetti ahead of time. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. It may require a few extra minutes in the oven if baked straight from the fridge.
What if I don’t have mozzarella cheese?
If mozzarella cheese isn’t available, other cheeses such as cheddar or provolone can be used for a different flavor profile.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
Baked Love Spaghetti is a heartwarming dish that brings families and loved ones together, making it a perfect choice for special occasions like Valentine’s Day. Its comforting layers of spaghetti, savory meat sauce, and melted cheese create a delightful meal that not only satisfies hunger but also symbolizes love and togetherness. Enjoy this easy to prepare dish and create lasting memories around the dinner table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cheesy Baked Penne
Swap spaghetti for penne pasta, and layer with marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, and a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a creamy twist.
Vegetable Baked Ziti
Make it vegetarian by using ziti pasta, piled high with roasted vegetables, marinara sauce, and two types of cheese for a flavor-packed healthy option.
Baked Spaghetti Squash
For a low-carb alternative, use roasted spaghetti squash strands, mixed with marinara and cheese for a lighter yet hearty dish.
Buffalo Chicken Baked Pasta
Transform the classic by adding shredded buffalo chicken, ranch dressing, and top it with mozzarella for a spicy twist.
Mediterranean Baked Orzo
Mix orzo with sun-dried tomatoes, olives, spinach, and feta cheese for a fresh, Mediterranean-inspired baked dish.
