This is my famous 'church supper' dish and all my church friends go wild over it!

Baked Church Supper Spaghetti is a heartwarming dish that's perfect for bringing people together. Originating from cozy potlucks at our local church, this recipe brings back fond memories of community gatherings and shared meals. It's an easy-to-make, comforting classic that combines rich tomato sauce with tender spaghetti and a cheesy, golden crust. Ideal for family dinners or feeding a larger crowd, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home.

This spaghetti bake pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, and a side of steamed vegetables. For a bit of extra comfort, consider serving it with a warm bowl of minestrone soup. And don't forget a simple dessert like apple crisp or brownies to round out the meal!

Baked Church Supper Spaghetti

Servings: 8

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
24 oz marinara sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 lb spaghetti
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened.

Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

While the sauce simmers, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Combine the cooked spaghetti with the sauce in the skillet, mixing well to coat all the pasta.

Transfer the spaghetti mixture to a large baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden crust.

Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Variations & Tips

For a healthier twist, use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. To add some veggies to the dish, sauté bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach along with the onions and garlic. If you have picky eaters, consider making a half-and-half version with plain spaghetti on one side and the full sauce mix on the other. For extra flavor, you can mix in a bit of ricotta cheese with the pasta before baking.