Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish.
Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef or sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Add Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
Combine Ingredients: Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Mix Everything Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce mixture, tossing until evenly coated.
Assemble the Casserole: Pour half of the spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish. Layer half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the sliced pepperoni on top. Pour the remaining spaghetti mixture over the top, then finish with the remaining cheese and pepperoni.
Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, then slice and serve!
Serving Suggestions
Baked Pizza Spaghetti is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the meal by serving it with:
A side salad: A fresh green salad complements the richness of the casserole.
Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
A selection of dipping sauces: Marinara, ranch, or garlic butter can add extra flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Freezer: You can also freeze Baked Pizza Spaghetti for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm in the oven.
Conclusion
Baked Pizza Spaghetti is a delightful fusion of two beloved comfort foods that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. With its cheesy goodness and customizable toppings, it’s a dish the whole family will love. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your household. So gather your ingredients, unleash your creativity with toppings, and enjoy this delicious dish tonight!
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