Viral TikTok Baked Spaghetti is a delightful and creative twist on traditional spaghetti dishes that took social media by storm.
This comforting meal features layers of spaghetti tossed in a rich marinara sauce, combined with gooey cheese, and topped with flavorful ingredients for a cheesy, baked finish.
It’s not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to make, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
The dish’s popularity stems from its simplicity and the ability to customize it with various toppings, making it a fun and interactive recipe to share with family and friends.
Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this baked spaghetti recipe is sure to impress with its delicious flavors and satisfying textures.
Viral Tiktok Baked Spaghetti
INGREDIENTS
Red Sauce:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup onion, chopped
1/2 cup green bell pepper, ribs and seeds removed, chopped
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef, 80/20
1 1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
1 1/2 (24-ounce) jars spaghetti sauce
Pasta:
1 tablespoon salt
16 ounces spaghetti
Alfredo Sauce:
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
2 cups heavy cream
1 1/2 cup parmesan
2 cups Mozzarella
Oven: 350c for 30min
Credits: gonnawant seconds
Here are some variations and tips for making Viral TikTok Baked Spaghetti even more delicious and personalized:
Variations:
Cheese Combinations:
Different Cheeses: Experiment with a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, provolone, or ricotta for added flavor and creaminess.
Cream Cheese: Add dollops of cream cheese into the spaghetti for a richer, creamier texture.
Protein Add-Ins:
Ground Meat: Incorporate ground beef, turkey, or sausage into the sauce for a heartier dish.
Vegetarian Option: Use lentils or plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Vegetable Boost:
Add Veggies: Mix in sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to increase nutritional value and add flavor.
Roasted Vegetables: Top the dish with roasted vegetables before baking for extra flavor.
Pasta Variations:
Different Pasta Shapes: While spaghetti is traditional, you can use penne, fusilli, or rotini for a fun twist.
Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of the dish.
Sauce Options:
Alfredo Sauce: Substitute marinara with Alfredo sauce for a creamy alternative or mix both for a hybrid sauce.
Spicy Sauce: Add red pepper flakes or use a spicy marinara to give the dish a kick.
Topping Ideas:
Breadcrumbs: Add a crunchy topping with seasoned breadcrumbs or panko before baking.
Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley after baking for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips:
Layering: For the best results, layer the spaghetti, sauce, and cheese instead of mixing everything together.
This allows the cheese to melt beautifully on top while keeping the pasta moist.
Baking Dish: Use a deep baking dish to accommodate all the ingredients, ensuring it cooks evenly. A 9×13 inch dish works well.
Resting Time: Allow the baked spaghetti to rest for about 10-15 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps it set and makes serving easier.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the dish in advance and refrigerate it before baking.
Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Cover While Baking: If the top browns too quickly, cover the dish with aluminum foil for part of the baking time to ensure even cooking.
Freezing: This dish freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
By using these variations and tips, you can customize your Viral TikTok Baked Spaghetti to suit your tastes and make it a hit at any meal!
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for a serving of Viral TikTok Baked Spaghetti.
The values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used, but here’s a general estimate per serving (about 1 cup):
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 350-450 kcal
Protein: 15-20g
Carbohydrates: 40-50g
Dietary Fiber: 2-4g
Sugars: 5-7g
Fat: 15-25g
Saturated Fat: 7-10g
Cholesterol: 40-60mg
Sodium: 600-900mg
Breakdown:
Pasta: The primary source of carbohydrates, providing energy and some protein. Whole grain pasta options will increase fiber content.
Cheese: Contributes significantly to the fat and protein content. The type of cheese used can affect the overall nutrition.
Sauce: Marinara sauce adds vitamins and minerals but may also contain added sugars and sodium, depending on the brand.
Meat (if added): Ground meat will increase the protein and fat content, depending on the cut used (lean vs. fatty).
Vegetables (if added): Increase the fiber, vitamins, and minerals while lowering overall calories per serving.
Healthier Modifications:
Whole Wheat Pasta: Swap regular pasta for whole wheat or legume-based pasta to increase fiber and protein.
Low-Fat Cheese: Use low-fat cheese to reduce fat and calories.
Add Vegetables: Incorporating more vegetables can increase the nutritional value without significantly adding calories.
Lean Protein: Opt for lean ground turkey or chicken instead of higher-fat beef or sausage.
This nutritional information serves as a general guideline.
For a more accurate assessment, especially if you have specific dietary requirements, consider calculating the nutrition based on the exact ingredients and quantities used in your recipe.