High Protein Spaghetti Casserole – Easy Cheesy Comfort Dinner

When you’re searching for the best spaghetti recipes, this High Protein Spaghetti Casserole is a winner. It takes classic spaghetti and turns it into a bubbly, cheesy baked casserole that’s satisfying and filling. Perfect for weeknights or meal prep.

Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 35 minutes Total Time: 50 minutes Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 12 oz spaghetti noodles
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic for 2 minutes. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Stir in marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, 1 cup mozzarella, and ¼ cup Parmesan until smooth.
6. Assemble the casserole: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the baking dish. Add half the spaghetti, half the ricotta mixture, and half the remaining meat sauce. Repeat the layers. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
8. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Tips for Success

• For extra protein, add cottage cheese to the ricotta layer.
• Make it ahead and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
• Want it spicy? Add red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories: ≈ 480 | Protein: 32g | Carbs: 42g | Fat: 20g

Conclusion This High Protein Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food when you’re craving spaghetti. Cheesy, hearty, and family-approved — save this recipe for your next dinner!