This rich and comforting casserole brings together layers of tender spaghetti, savory meat sauce, and a creamy cheese blend—perfect for a crowd or a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
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1 lb (450g) spaghetti
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1 lb (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage (or a mix of both)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 (24 oz) jar pasta sauce or homemade marinara
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1 cup cottage cheese
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½ cup sour cream
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¼ cup mayonnaise
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 tbsp melted butter
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Prep the Oven & Dish
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. -
Cook the Spaghetti
Boil spaghetti until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside. -
Make the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef or sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add the onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
Stir in the pasta sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes. Season with salt and pepper. -
Mix the Cheese Layer
In a separate bowl, combine cottage cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth. -
Assemble the Casserole
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Spread half the cooked spaghetti in the bottom of the baking dish.
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Drizzle with half of the melted butter.
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Spoon the cheese mixture over the spaghetti and spread evenly.
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Add the remaining spaghetti on top and drizzle with the rest of the butter.
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Pour the meat sauce over the spaghetti.
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Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
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Bake
Cover the dish loosely with foil (tent it slightly to avoid sticking to the cheese).
Bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbling. -
Serve
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
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