Looking for the perfect Southern comfort food dish? Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a hearty, cheesy, and crowd-pleasing recipe that combines the rich flavors of a traditional spaghetti dinner with a Southern twist. This casserole is perfect for feeding a family or a large gathering, and it’s easy to make ahead of time, freeze, and reheat when needed. Packed with seasoned ground beef, savory marinara sauce, tender spaghetti, and topped with layers of gooey cheese, this dish will soon become one of your go-to comfort food favorites. Stick with us as we break down the recipe, step by step, with helpful tips and substitutions to make it perfect for you!
What is Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole?
Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting blend of pasta, ground beef, and marinara sauce, baked with layers of melted cheese for a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Unlike regular spaghetti, where everything is served freshly mixed together, this casserole is baked in the oven, creating a cheesy, bubbly top layer and allowing the flavors to meld together. It’s a dish you can make for weeknight dinners, Sunday suppers, or even special occasions when you need to feed a crowd.
Ingredients List for Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole
Here’s everything you need to make this Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole:
- 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage for more flavor)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 oz spaghetti, cooked and drained
- 1 cup sour cream (or ricotta cheese for creaminess)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten (helps bind the casserole)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional garnish)
Substitutions and Variations for Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole
You can easily adjust this Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole recipe to fit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are some ideas for substitutions and variations:
- Turkey or chicken instead of beef: If you want a lighter version, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or ground chicken.
- Vegetarian option: Skip the meat and use chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or a plant-based meat substitute to make a hearty vegetarian version.
- Spaghetti squash or gluten-free pasta: For a gluten-free version, use spaghetti squash or gluten-free pasta in place of regular spaghetti.
- Add vegetables: Bulk up the casserole by adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or even shredded carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese blend: Try different cheeses such as Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Parmesan to change up the flavor profile.
- Extra creamy: Mix in some cream cheese or cottage cheese to the sour cream layer for a creamier texture.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole:
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the onions are soft and translucent.
- Add tomatoes and sauce: Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper. Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Prepare the spaghetti: While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Mix the sour cream and egg: In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream (or ricotta) and the lightly beaten egg. This mixture will add creaminess and help bind the casserole.
- Assemble the casserole: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Spread half of the cooked spaghetti across the bottom of the dish. Spoon half of the meat sauce over the spaghetti. Spread the sour cream and egg mixture evenly over the sauce. Add the remaining spaghetti on top, then pour the rest of the meat sauce over it.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake the casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
- Cool and serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
How to Cook Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown ground beef, then sauté onions and garlic.
- Add marinara, diced tomatoes, and seasonings, and let simmer.
- Cook spaghetti and mix sour cream with a beaten egg.
- Assemble layers of spaghetti, sauce, and sour cream mixture in a greased baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes covered, then uncover and bake another 10-15 minutes.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole turns out perfect every time, avoid these common mistakes:
- Overcooking the spaghetti: Make sure the spaghetti is al dente (firm to the bite) since it will continue cooking in the oven. Overcooked pasta can become mushy in the casserole.
- Skipping the egg in the sour cream mixture: The egg helps bind the casserole, giving it structure when you cut into it. Skipping it could result in a runnier casserole.
- Not draining the beef: Draining excess fat from the ground beef is essential to avoid a greasy casserole.
- Forgetting to cover with foil: Baking the casserole covered allows it to heat through without over-browning the cheese. Uncover for the last 10-15 minutes for a golden top.
Serving and Presentation Tips
A beautifully presented casserole can turn a simple meal into a special occasion. Here’s how to serve and present your Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole:
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve with a side salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the casserole.
- Add garlic bread: Serve slices of garlic bread or warm dinner rolls alongside the casserole to soak up the extra sauce.
How to Serve Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole
Here are some ideas for serving your Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole:
- Main dish: Serve generous portions of the casserole as a filling main dish, accompanied by salad or roasted vegetables.
- Potluck favorite: This casserole travels well and can be served directly from the dish, making it ideal for potlucks or family gatherings.
- Leftovers: Leftover baked spaghetti tastes even better the next day. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the oven until warmed through.
Presentation Ideas for Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole
To make your casserole look extra appetizing, try these presentation ideas:
- Serve in a cast iron skillet: For a rustic and homestyle presentation, bake and serve the casserole in a large cast iron skillet.
- Garnish with cheese and herbs: Right before serving, add a little extra grated Parmesan or fresh mozzarella on top for a fancy finish.
- Individual servings: You can also make this recipe in smaller ramekins or oven-safe bowls for individual portions that are perfect for dinner parties.
Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your casserole is a hit:
- Double the recipe: If you’re feeding a large group, you can easily double the recipe and bake it in a larger dish or two separate casseroles.
- Freeze for later: This casserole freezes well. Assemble the casserole, but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
- Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to bake. Just pop it in the oven for an easy, make-ahead meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate it. Just bake it as directed when you’re ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Absolutely. You can freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as usual.
Q: What’s the best cheese to use?
A: A blend of cheddar and mozzarella works great for a balance of flavor and meltiness, but feel free to experiment with Parmesan, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp Gouda.
Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes! Simply substitute the spaghetti with gluten-free pasta, and make sure your marinara sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free.
Q: How long does this casserole last in the fridge?
A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Conclusion
Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a rich, comforting, and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Combining tender spaghetti, savory beef sauce, and layers of melted cheese, this casserole brings a Southern twist to a classic favorite. With its make-ahead and freezer-friendly options, it’s a versatile recipe you’ll want to make over and over again. Try this recipe, and enjoy a slice of Southern comfort with every bite!
PrintSouthern Baked Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Southern Baked Spaghetti Casserole combines tender spaghetti, ground beef, and a savory tomato sauce topped with melty cheese. This comforting dish is a family favorite, ideal for weeknight dinners or potlucks. With its rich flavors and cheesy layers, this easy-to-make casserole delivers a classic Southern twist on traditional spaghetti.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern, American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Spaghetti (cooked)
- Ground beef
- Onion (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Canned diced tomatoes
- Tomato sauce
- Tomato paste
- Italian seasoning
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Cottage cheese or ricotta
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- Eggs
- Butter
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 baking dish.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, combine cottage cheese, eggs, and half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Layer half of the cooked spaghetti in the bottom of the prepared dish. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the spaghetti. Add a layer of the meat sauce.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining spaghetti, cheese mixture, and meat sauce. Top with the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Dot with small pieces of butter.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use Italian sausage or a blend of beef and sausage.
- Substitute cottage cheese with ricotta for a creamier texture.
- Add bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat sauce for extra vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ⅛ of casserole
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 900mg
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