Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing pasta dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’re going to adore this Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe. It’s got all the best parts of spaghetti—cheesy, saucy, meaty—baked together into one irresistible casserole. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a go-to for weeknight dinners or potlucks because it just hits the spot every time.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together in a simple yet delicious way—the juicy ground beef, fresh herbs, and a good marinara meld perfectly with spaghetti and cheese to create that melt-in-your-mouth baked magic. I’ve found that using fresh basil and oregano really lifts the flavors.

• Olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin for sautéing to add fragrance without overpowering the dish.
• Lean ground beef: I go for 93% lean for hearty flavor without excess grease.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a nice aromatic punch that you can’t beat with jarred powders.
• Sweet onion: Finely chopped onions melt into the sauce adding subtle sweetness and texture.
• Green pepper: Adds a mild earthiness and a little crunch after cooking.
• Diced tomatoes: Drained to avoid too much liquid, giving body to the sauce.
• Marinara sauce: I prefer using 24 ounces, but bump it up to 32 if you want your casserole extra saucy.
• Fresh basil and oregano: Chopped fresh herbs add brightness that dried can’t match.
• Salt and pepper: Season to taste – it really brings the sauce alive.
• Spaghetti noodles: Cooking al dente means your noodles won’t get mushy after baking.
• Parmesan cheese: Tossed with pasta for a savory depth.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts to a bubbly, golden topping that’s irresistible.

Variations

I love that this Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is so forgiving—you can switch up ingredients and flavors based on what you have or your family’s preferences. Here’s a little peek at my favorite tweaks.

• Meat swaps: Ground turkey or chicken works great if you want a leaner version, and even a meatless crumble if you’re vegetarian-friendly.
• Cheese combos: Mix mozzarella with provolone, or add a little sharp cheddar for a tangy twist my family loves.
• Veggie boost: Try adding mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes in the sauce gives a subtle heat that livens up the whole dish.

How to Make Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics and Ground Beef

Start by warming a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef, breaking it up with your spoon, and cook about 4 minutes until it begins to brown but isn’t fully done. Then add in the minced garlic, finely chopped onions, and green pepper. These soften up over another 4 minutes creating a savory base for your sauce. Make sure to drain any excess liquid after this step—it keeps your casserole from getting soggy.

Step 2: Simmer the Sauce

Now stir in your drained diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, and fresh herbs—basil and oregano for that charming southern flavor profile. Season with salt and pepper to your taste, then turn down the heat and let it simmer gently while you get the pasta ready. This slow melding really lets the flavors deepen.

Step 3: Cook Spaghetti Al Dente

Boil your spaghetti noodles in plenty of salted water following package instructions, usually just shy of fully soft for that al dente bite. Drain the pasta well but please don’t rinse it! Leaving the starch helps the sauce cling better to the noodles, making every forkful deliciously coated.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish liberally with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Toss your hot spaghetti with freshly shredded Parmesan cheese—this little step adds an extra layer of flavor and richness. Spread the meat and tomato sauce mixture over the pasta in the dish, folding it gently to combine. Finally, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Pop it in your preheated oven at 350°F for 30 minutes, uncovered, until the top is beautifully golden and bubbling. Let it sit a few minutes before serving—this helps it set so it slices nicely.

How to Serve Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

I always sprinkle a little extra freshly chopped basil or parsley on top just before serving—it adds a pop of color and freshness. A light drizzle of good olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can also elevate the flavors right at the table.

Side Dishes

To round out this hearty casserole, I like to serve it alongside a crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted garlic green beans. A crusty piece of garlic bread is practically mandatory in my book!

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve baked this casserole in individual ramekins for cute single servings. It also looks stunning topped with a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan for extra crunch. Either way, it brings that Southern charm to your dinner table every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and it keeps well for 3-4 days. The flavors actually get better overnight as the sauce soaks into the pasta. Just make sure to cool it to room temperature before refrigerating.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. I usually assemble it completely, then wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap before popping it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven covered with foil for about 20 minutes, removing foil the last 5 minutes to crisp up the cheese topping. Alternatively, the microwave works fine for a quick portion, but you’ll lose some of that fresh-baked texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe brings everyone to the table with smiles. It’s one of those dishes that’s both nostalgic and satisfying, yet surprisingly simple to pull together. Once you try it, you’ll see why my family goes crazy for it on busy weeknights or whenever we want that little taste of Southern comfort. Give it a go—I’m betting it’ll be a new favorite in your repertoire too!

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