Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Casserole
This comforting baked spaghetti recipe combines al dente noodles with savory Italian turkey sausage, a rich tomato marinara, and a perfectly bubbly cheese crust. The addition of a butter and egg binding layer keeps the pasta texture firm and flavorful, preventing the common issue of soggy noodles. It is a hearty, sophisticated Italian-American casserole that is perfect for a satisfying weeknight family dinner.
Ingredients
- 16 ounces spaghetti noodles
- 1 pound Italian turkey sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 24–36 ounces marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Boil the spaghetti noodles for 1 to 2 minutes less than the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the Italian turkey sausage over medium-high heat until cooked through.
- Add the onion to the skillet and sauté until translucent, then stir in the garlic, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning.
- Pour in the marinara sauce, stir to combine, and simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and beaten eggs, then toss with the cooked spaghetti.
- Stir half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese into the pasta mixture.
- Spread the pasta into the prepared baking dish and top with the meat sauce.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
- Bake for 30-40 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown.
Notes
Ensure you rinse the pasta in cold water to stop the cooking process; this prevents the casserole from becoming mushy. Shredding your own cheese is highly recommended for superior melting. Use turkey or chicken Italian sausage to keep the dish lean.