Baked Spaghetti with Minced Beef and Bacon

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🍝 Baked Spaghetti with Minced Beef and Bacon

A rich, comforting baked pasta dish layered with savory minced beef, smoky bacon, tomato sauce, and melted cheese — perfect for family dinners and gatherings.

📝 Description

Baked Spaghetti with Minced Beef and Bacon is a hearty Italian-inspired casserole where spaghetti is tossed in a flavorful meat sauce, layered with cheese, and baked until bubbly and golden. It combines the comfort of pasta with the richness of beef and the smoky depth of bacon, making it an all-time favorite comfort food.

⏱️ Prep & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes

  • Cook Time: 40 minutes

  • Total Time: 1 hour

🍽️ Servings

Serves: 4–6 people

🛒 Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • 400g spaghetti

  • 1 tsp salt (for boiling water)

For the Meat Sauce:

  • 250g minced beef

  • 150g beef or turkey bacon, chopped

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 cup tomato sauce

  • ½ cup tomato paste

  • 1 tsp black pepper

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)

  • Salt to taste

For Topping:

  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • ½ cup grated cheddar or parmesan

  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Cook Spaghetti

  1. Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente.

  2. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare Meat Sauce

  1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

  2. Add bacon and fry until crispy.

  3. Add onion and sauté until soft.

  4. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

  5. Add minced beef and cook until browned.

  6. Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, and spices.

  7. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until thick.

Step 3: Assemble

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).

  2. Mix cooked spaghetti with meat sauce.

  3. Transfer into a greased baking dish.

  4. Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar/parmesan on top.

Step 4: Bake

  1. Bake for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

  2. Garnish with herbs and serve hot.

 Tips for Best Results

  • Use al dente pasta so it doesn’t become mushy.

  • Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor.

  • For creamier texture, mix ½ cup cream or béchamel sauce into the pasta.

  • Let the dish rest 5 minutes before serving.

🧠 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx.)

  • Calories: 520 kcal

  • Protein: 28g

  • Carbohydrates: 45g

  • Fat: 26g

  • Fiber: 4g

  • Calcium: 220mg

💪 Health Benefits

  • High Protein: Builds muscle and keeps you full.

  • Energy Rich: Carbs provide sustained energy.

  • Calcium Source: Cheese supports bone health.

  • Iron Rich: Minced beef supports healthy blood levels.

❓ Q & A – Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble, cover, refrigerate up to 24 hours, then bake when needed.

Q2: Can I freeze baked spaghetti?

Yes. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Q3: What can I use instead of bacon?

Use smoked turkey, chicken strips, or mushrooms.

Q4: Can I make it spicy?

Absolutely — add green chilies, chili flakes, or hot sauce.

Q5: Can I make it healthier?

Use whole wheat spaghetti, lean beef, and low-fat cheese.

🌟 Serving Suggestions

  • Garlic bread

  • Fresh green salad

  • Steamed vegetables

  • Lemon iced tea or fresh juice

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