Chicago Spaghetti brings a unique, baked, cheesy twist to classic spaghetti. Layered with meat sauce and cheese, it’s a comforting dish perfect for any occasion.

Introduction

Chicago Spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food for pasta lovers who crave something a little heartier than your standard spaghetti and marinara. Inspired by the city’s love for deep-dish pizza and indulgent, layered meals, this baked spaghetti dish is loaded with meat sauce, melted cheese, and perfectly cooked noodles, all baked together for a gooey, cheesy, and satisfying meal.

Unlike the traditional stovetop spaghetti, Chicago Spaghetti is all about layers and richness. The meat sauce, usually a combination of ground beef and Italian sausage, is simmered to perfection with tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasonings. The spaghetti is cooked and tossed with a bit of sauce before being layered in a casserole dish with generous amounts of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. After baking, the result is a dish that’s as comforting as it is filling, with a golden cheesy crust on top and tender pasta inside. It’s the perfect meal for feeding a crowd or just enjoying a cozy night in!

Ingredients

• 1 pound spaghetti
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the meat sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking them up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
4. Make the sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Toss the pasta with sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce, tossing until well coated. Set aside about 1/2 cup of the sauce for later use.
6. Layer the dish: In the prepared baking dish, add a layer of spaghetti mixed with sauce. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan over the pasta. Add another layer of spaghetti and top with the reserved sauce. Finish with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
7. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Serve: Let the dish cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm.

How to Prepare

Chicago Spaghetti is a simple yet satisfying dish that comes together in a few easy steps. Start by making a hearty meat sauce with beef, Italian sausage, and a mix of tomatoes. Toss the cooked spaghetti with this flavorful sauce, then layer it with plenty of cheese in a casserole dish. Baking it in the oven allows the cheese to melt and create a golden, bubbly top that’s sure to please everyone at the table. It’s a great dish for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep since it reheats beautifully.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 40 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour

Servings

This recipe serves 6-8 people.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with other types of pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine. The dish will still be delicious!
2. Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
   Absolutely! You can add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the meat sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the dish up to a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if you’re cooking it straight from the fridge.
4. How should I store leftovers?
   Store leftover baked spaghetti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
5. Can I freeze Chicago Spaghetti?
   Yes, this dish freezes well. Once assembled, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Conclusion

Chicago Spaghetti is a delightful twist on the classic pasta dish, offering layers of meat sauce and gooey cheese baked to perfection. Whether you’re looking to feed a crowd or simply craving something hearty and comforting, this recipe delivers a rich, cheesy meal that’s sure to satisfy. The combination of flavorful ground beef, savory Italian sausage, and tangy tomato sauce with melted cheese makes it a hit at any dinner table. Best of all, it’s easy to make and perfect for leftovers or freezing for later. Give this baked spaghetti dish a try, and you’ll quickly see why it’s a favorite in many households!