Ingredients
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450g spaghetti (high-quality durum wheat if possible)
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1 lb (450g) ground beef (or turkey/chicken/pork/Italian sausage)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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2 cups marinara/marinara meat sauce
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1 cup beef broth
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1 cup ricotta cheese
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
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½ cup grated parmesan cheese
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1 large egg, beaten
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Optional: red pepper flakes for spice
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Optional: heavy cream or Greek yogurt (for extra creaminess)
Instructions
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Cook spaghetti until al dente, drain and let cool.
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Brown ground beef over medium-high heat, break into small pieces.
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Add onion, cook until soft, then add garlic for 1 minute.
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Pour marinara sauce + beef broth, simmer 10–15 min. Season with salt & pepper.
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In a bowl, mix ricotta + parmesan + 1 cup mozzarella + egg + salt & pepper.
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In a 9×13 dish: add meat sauce → spaghetti → cheese mix → mozzarella → repeat layers.
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Top with remaining mozzarella + a sprinkle of parmesan.
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Cover with foil, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 min, uncover and bake 10–15 min until bubbly.
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Rest 10–15 minutes before serving.
Notes
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Do not overcook pasta, it will soften more in the oven.
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For a redder sauce, simmer longer for deeper flavor.
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You can stuff layers with cream cheese for a “surprise center.”
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Dairy-free and gluten-free swaps work well if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian