“Chicago Spaghetti” isn’t a universally defined dish like Chicago deep-dish pizza, but in food circles, it generally refers to baked spaghetti — a hearty, cheesy, layered pasta dish that combines Italian flavors with Midwestern comfort food vibes. It’s popular in Chicago-style Italian-American cuisine, often served at neighborhood joints or family dinners.
Here’s a delicious, classic take on Chicago-Style Baked Spaghetti:
🍝 Chicago Spaghetti (Baked Spaghetti Casserole)
🕒 Prep Time: 20 min
🔥 Bake Time: 30–40 min
🍽️ Serves: 6–8
✅ Ingredients:
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1 lb spaghetti (or any pasta)
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1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (or half and half)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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3–4 garlic cloves, minced
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1 jar (24 oz) marinara or pasta sauce (or homemade)
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1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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Salt & pepper to taste
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2 cups shredded mozzarella
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan
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1 cup ricotta or cottage cheese (optional for creaminess)
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Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
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Olive oil
👩🍳 Instructions:
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Cook the pasta: Boil the spaghetti in salted water until just al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
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Make the meat sauce:
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In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned.
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Add chopped onion and garlic; cook until soft and fragrant.
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Stir in pasta sauce, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, salt & pepper. Simmer 5–10 minutes.
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Assemble the casserole:
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In a greased 9×13″ baking dish, layer half of the cooked spaghetti.
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Spread half of the meat sauce on top.
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Add dollops of ricotta or cottage cheese if using.
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Sprinkle 1 cup mozzarella and a little Parmesan.
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Repeat the layers: pasta → sauce → cheeses.
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Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
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Cool and serve: Let it rest 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
🧄 Optional Add-Ins:
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Sautéed mushrooms or spinach
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Chopped pepperoni or bacon
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Crushed red pepper for heat
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Crushed garlic bread crumbs on top for crunch
🧊 Storage:
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Fridge: 4–5 days in airtight container
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Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat covered in oven or microwave.