This Easy Chicago-Style Spaghetti is a fun twist on the classic dish! It’s layered with rich meat sauce, gooey cheese, and spaghetti, creating a hearty meal that’s perfect for gatherings.
You’ll love how simple it is to whip up! I like to serve it with a side salad for some crunch. Trust me, the cheesy goodness makes it hard to resist going back for seconds! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spaghetti: I love using traditional spaghetti, but you can swap it for other types of pasta, like penne or rigatoni, if you prefer a different shape.
Ground Beef: Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives for a lighter option. For a richer flavor, consider mixing in some Italian sausage.
Marinara Sauce: A jarred marinara is convenient, but if you have time, make your own using crushed tomatoes, herbs, and spices. For a twist, use a roasted garlic or spicy marinara.
Cheese: While I recommend mozzarella for its meltiness, you could use provolone or a dairy-free cheese for a change. Add a sprinkle of ricotta for added creaminess if you’d like!
How Can You Achieve a Perfectly Layered Spaghetti Dish?
Layering is crucial to getting that tasty, baked Chicago-style spaghetti just right. Make sure to spread ingredients evenly for the best flavor in each bite!
- Start by evenly distributing half your spaghetti in the baking dish.
- Keep the meat sauce thick to prevent sogginess. Spoon it gently over the noodles.
- Sprinkle the cheese evenly; you want cheesy goodness in every slice!
- When layering, don’t rush. Take your time to ensure each layer is well-prepared and balanced.
By following these layering tips, you’ll end up with a beautiful and delicious dish that holds together nicely. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Chicago-Style Spaghetti Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 ounces spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicago-Style Spaghetti will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until it’s al dente. When it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the finely chopped onion and cook it until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. This is where the magic begins to happen!
3. Cook the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef into the skillet. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. You want it nicely browned and cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Once done, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being too greasy.
4. Make the Sauce:
Now, stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer for 5-10 minutes so the flavors can marry nicely together. Your kitchen should be smelling amazing right about now!
5. Layer it Up:
In a large baking dish, start layering! First, pour in half of the cooked spaghetti. Then, add half of your meat sauce mixture. Sprinkle on half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Yum! Repeat this with the remaining spaghetti, followed by the rest of the meat sauce, and top it off with the rest of the cheeses.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place your layered dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is melted and bubbly. It should be golden delight!
7. Final Touches:
Once done, remove your masterpiece from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This will help it set and make serving easier!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish your Chicago-style spaghetti with fresh parsley or basil to make it pop. Then, dive in and enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite! This dish is sure to become a family favorite!
FAQ
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat spaghetti can add a nutty flavor and is great for a healthier option. Gluten-free pasta works well too; just follow the package instructions for cooking times, as they can vary.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Chicago-style spaghetti in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef with an equivalent amount of your favorite plant-based meat alternative or diced vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini. It’ll still be delicious!
What Can I Serve This Dish With?
This hearty spaghetti is great on its own, but you can serve it with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy!
