Introduction
Baked Spaghetti with Minced Beef and Bacon is the ultimate comfort food—an irresistible fusion of hearty pasta, rich meat sauce, and melted cheese, baked to golden perfection. It’s a satisfying dish that’s perfect for feeding a hungry family or impressing guests with minimal fuss.
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Origin and Cultural Significance
This dish takes inspiration from both Italian pasta traditions and American casseroles. While spaghetti is traditionally served as a stovetop dish in Italy, American cuisine has embraced the oven-baked version as a practical, filling, and crowd-pleasing option. The addition of bacon and cheese reflects the love for bold, smoky, and rich flavors, making this baked spaghetti a staple in many households, especially in North America.
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Ingredients Quantity
For the Spaghetti
Water – Enough for boiling
Salt – To taste
Vegetable oil – 1 tablespoon
Spaghetti – 300 g (10.5 oz) or about 3 cups (dry)
For the Sauce and Topping
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
250 g (9 oz) minced beef
100 g (3.5 oz) bacon, chopped
1 can (400 g / 14 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)
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Optional Additions
Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies
Ricotta or cream cheese for a creamier layer
Chili powder for a Southwestern flair
Breadcrumb topping mixed with Parmesan for extra crunch
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Tips for Success
Salt the pasta water generously; it adds flavor to the spaghetti.
Cook pasta al dente, since it will continue cooking in the oven.
Drain excess fat from the bacon and beef mixture for a balanced texture.
Let the sauce simmer for at least 10–15 minutes to develop rich flavor.
Layer sauce and cheese generously for even baking and creamy texture.
Cover with foil for the first half of baking, then uncover to brown the top.
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Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Boil spaghetti: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add vegetable oil and spaghetti. Cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the sauce: In a skillet, heat olive oil. Sauté chopped onion and garlic until fragrant.
4. Add minced beef and bacon: Cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 10–15 minutes.
6. Combine spaghetti with half of the sauce. Mix until well coated.
7. In a greased baking dish, layer:
Half the spaghetti
Half the remaining sauce
Sprinkle half of each cheese
Repeat the layers
8. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
9. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
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Description
This dish is everything comfort food should be—rich, savory, and loaded with flavor. The spaghetti is perfectly tender, enveloped in a robust tomato-based meat sauce. Smoky bacon adds depth, while the gooey melted cheese brings it all together into one satisfying bite. The baked layers ensure every mouthful is packed with saucy, cheesy goodness.
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Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, based on 6 servings)
Calories: 480 kcal
Protein: 24g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 6g
Sodium: 780mg
Calcium: 180mg
Iron: 2.5mg
Note: Values may vary depending on exact ingredients used.
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Conclusion
Baked Spaghetti with Minced Beef and Bacon is more than a simple pasta bake—it’s a cozy, family-style dish that unites the best of savory meat sauces and cheesy casseroles. It’s easy to prepare, deeply satisfying, and ideal for leftovers, making it a timeless recipe for any home cook.
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Recommendation
Serve with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine or a citrusy iced tea. Perfect for dinner parties, potlucks, or just a cozy night in.
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Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While this dish is indulgent, it can be adapted for a healthier lifestyle. Use whole-wheat pasta, lean ground turkey or chicken, and low-fat cheese. Add extra vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers to boost the fiber and nutrient content. Baking rather than frying and balancing portions allows you to enjoy this dish guilt-free while still savoring every rich, cheesy bite.