Baked Spaghetti with Minced Beef and Bacon recipe for you:
Ingredients:
For the meat sauce:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
250g (9 oz) minced beef
100g (3.5 oz) bacon, chopped
1 can (400g / 14 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
For the pasta:
250g (9 oz) spaghetti
1 tbsp butter
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg, lightly beaten (optional, for structure when baked)
For the topping:
1 to 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Extra Parmesan for sprinkling
Instructions:
- Cook the spaghetti:
Boil a large pot of salted water.
Cook spaghetti until al dente, drain, then return to the pot.
Add butter, Parmesan, and beaten egg (if using). Toss well. Set aside.
- Make the meat sauce:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté onion and garlic until soft.
Add chopped bacon and cook until starting to crisp.
Add minced beef and brown until no longer pink.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar.
Simmer for 10–15 minutes, until slightly thickened.
- Assemble the dish:
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
In a greased baking dish, layer half the spaghetti, then half the meat sauce. Repeat.
Top with shredded mozzarella and extra Parmesan.
- Bake:
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
For a golden top, broil for the last 2–3 minutes (optional).
- Serve:
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy with garlic bread or a side salad!