Description
A hearty Italian-American casserole with layered pasta, protein-rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese, baked to a golden crust. Versatile, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
12 oz dry spaghetti (oven-safe if uncooked)
3 cups alcohol-free tomato sauce
1 lb ground turkey or beef (or 1 cup cooked lentils/mushrooms)
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella (or vegan cheese alternative)
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
Drain and rinse pre-cooked spaghetti
Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil
Cook ground turkey until browned (or sauté lentils/mushrooms)
Mix ricotta with Italian seasoning
In a greased baking dish, layer ricotta filling, cooked spaghetti, and half the tomato sauce
Repeat layers ending with cheese topping
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
Uncover and bake for 25 minutes until golden
Let rest 10 minutes before serving
Notes
Use thickened sauce to avoid sogginess
Drizzle uncooked spaghetti with olive oil for even seasoning
Bake at 350°F for softer layers
Lay spaghetti in single direction for cleaner presentation
Full-fat cheese melts best
Avoid over-saucing (4 oz per layer recommended)
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Lunch & Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American