Name: Tomato & Mozzarella Spaghetti Bake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, chopped; 2 x 400g cans chopped tomatoes; Good pinch of chilli powder; 400g spaghetti, broken into short lengths; Handful basil leaves, plus a few extra for garnish; 250g pack mozzarella, sliced; 50g grated parmesan (or vegetarian alternative)

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

This tomato and mozzarella spaghetti bake is a comforting, cheesy dish perfect for a family dinner. Layers of tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella come together to create a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please.

A white rectangular baking dish sitting on a white marbled textured surface is filled with baked spaghetti nests. The dish shows several layers starting with a base of cooked spaghetti mixed with a light tomato sauce giving a soft orange color, followed by melted white cheese that is slightly browned in spots. Small pieces of red tomato and green basil leaves are scattered evenly throughout the top layer, adding fresh color contrast. The spaghetti strands are loosely coiled, with crispy edges visible around the nests. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
2 garlic cloves, chopped
2 x 400g cans chopped tomatoes
Good pinch of chilli powder
400g spaghetti, broken into short lengths
Handful basil leaves, plus a few extra for garnish
250g pack mozzarella, sliced
50g grated parmesan (or vegetarian alternative)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or gas mark 6. Warm the olive oil in a large pan, add the chopped garlic and fry gently for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the chopped tomatoes, chilli powder, and seasoning to the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes to develop the sauce.
Step 3: Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti in boiling salted water until just tender, then drain well.
Step 4: Stir the cooked spaghetti into the tomato sauce along with the basil leaves. Mix well to combine.
Step 5: Spoon half of the spaghetti mixture into a large ovenproof dish. Arrange half of the mozzarella slices evenly over the top, then sprinkle with half of the grated parmesan.
Step 6: Repeat the layering with the remaining spaghetti mixture, mozzarella, and parmesan.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and bubbling.
Step 8: Remove from the oven, scatter extra basil leaves on top, and serve warm with a big green salad.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh basil for the best flavor and add some to the sauce for extra herbal notes.
For a vegetarian version, be sure to use a vegetarian Parmesan alternative.
Add some cooked vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the tomato sauce for extra nutrition.
If you like a spicier bake, increase the amount of chilli powder or add red pepper flakes.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. The bake is best enjoyed fresh, as the cheese texture changes after storing.

How to Serve

A white rectangular baking dish filled with a baked pasta dish, showing about four layers of twisted spaghetti coated in a red tomato sauce mixed with melted white cheese. The top layer is golden and slightly crispy, with small green basil leaves scattered evenly on top, adding a fresh touch. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface, creating a clean and bright background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, short pasta like penne or rigatoni works well for this bake, but spaghetti broken into shorter lengths adds a nice texture.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely. Assemble the bake but don’t cook it, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking as directed.