Baked Spaghetti Casserole RecipeIngredients:250g spaghetti (cooked al dente)400g ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)1 onion, finely chopped2 garlic cloves, minced400g tomato sauce (or marinara sauce)Salt and pepper to taste2 tablespoons olive oil1 cup grated mozzarella cheese1 cup grated cheddar or parmesan cheese (optional)For the Béchamel (White) Sauce:3 tablespoons butter3 tablespoons flour2 cups milkSalt and pepper to tasteA pinch of nutmeg (optional)Instructions:Prepare the Meat Sauce:Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.Add chopped onion and sauté until soft.Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.Add ground meat and cook until browned.Season with salt and pepper.Add tomato sauce and simmer for 10 minutes. Set aside.Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.Add flour and whisk for 2-3 minutes to form a roux.Gradually add milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.Cook until the sauce thickens.Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Remove from heat.Assemble the Casserole:In a deep baking dish, add a layer of cooked spaghetti.Spread the meat sauce evenly over the spaghetti.Add another layer of spaghetti.Pour the béchamel sauce on top, spreading it evenly.Add Cheese:Sprinkle grated mozzarella and cheddar (or parmesan) on top.Bake:Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.Serve:Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting and serving.Enjoy!
Baked Spaghetti Casserole with Creamy Béchamel and Meat Sauce
