Baked Spaghetti I

Ingredients and Weight:

• Spaghetti - 400 grams (approximately 16 oz.)
• Ground Beef - 500 grams (approximately 1 lb.)
• Onion - 1 large, chopped
• Red Bell Pepper - 1, chopped
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Tomato Sauce - 1 jar (about 250 ml)
• Italian Seasoning - 1 tablespoon
• Salt and Pepper - to taste
• Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese - to serve (optional)
• Mozzarella Cheese - sliced for topping (optional)

Preparation Time:

• Preparation Time: 45 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Difficulty Level:

Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a large pot, cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate pan, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and bell pepper until fully cooked and no longer red. Drain excess fat.
4. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Pour the tomato sauce into the beef mixture and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Mix the cooked spaghetti with the beef sauce. Transfer the mixture into a baking dish.
7. Top with mozzarella cheese (if using) and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
8. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan cheese (if using), and serve immediately.

Nutritional Information: (per serving, assuming 8 servings total)

• Calories: Approx. 400-500 calories per serving (depending on toppings)
• Fat: 20-25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams
• Protein: 20-30 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Hearty and flavorful, with a rich tomato-beef sauce.
• The baked spaghetti is a comforting dish that pairs well with a glass of wine or a cold beverage.
• The dish is customizable based on personal preference for cheese and other toppings.

User Comments:

1. "This is an excellent recipe! The flavors were spot on, and my family loved it."
2. "I made this for a dinner party and it was a hit! The baked spaghetti was a great hit with all the guests."
3. "I added some extra spices to give it a kick, and it was delicious! This recipe is a keeper."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Ensure to use fresh ingredients for best results.
• Adjust the seasoning to taste before baking.
• The baking time may vary depending on the type of oven used; keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to avoid burning.