Skinny Baked Spaghetti

By:

Alejandro

Published:

October 12, 2025

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This Skinny Baked Spaghetti recipe is the kind of dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, all while keeping things lighter. Imagine layers of rich marinara sauce and creamy béchamel blended with al dente pasta, all tucked into a cozy baking dish. It’s like your favorite comfort food but with a twist that fits right into a health-conscious lifestyle. Whether you’re gathering with family or enjoying a cozy night in, this baked spaghetti shines on any table. It’s not just about eating—it’s about sharing a moment over a meal that’s bursting with flavor.

There’s something special about the combination of textures and tastes in this dish, which brings a new life to classic spaghetti. As you’ll see, it’s really simple to make, and, trust me, it’s going to impress everyone around you. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking this delightful Skinny Baked Spaghetti!

Why This Recipe Works

This Skinny Baked Spaghetti combines the comforting flavors of traditional pasta dishes with a healthier twist, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a lighter meal without sacrificing taste. By using lean ground beef and incorporating a creamy béchamel, we can enjoy a rich abundance of flavors while keeping the dish lower in fat. Also, the addition of protein pasta lifts the nutritional profile further, making it a healthier alternative to regular spaghetti. So, this dish stays true to the beloved spaghetti concept while catering to modern dietary needs.

Why You’ll Love This Skinny Baked Spaghetti

Not only is this recipe easy to prepare, but it also satisfies cravings and impresses family and friends alike. You’ll love how the layers of flavor come together, thanks to the well-seasoned meat, the vibrant marinara sauce, and the creamy béchamel. Each bite offers a delightful mix of comfort and satisfaction. It’s perfect for any day of the week, but it also has that feel of a special occasion dish. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it a great addition to your recipe collection!

Ingredients

To make this Skinny Baked Spaghetti, you will need:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
8 oz. button mushrooms, finely chopped
1 lb. grass-fed ground beef (95% lean)
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 dried bay leaves
Salt & pepper to taste
32 oz. marinara sauce (Rao’s brand recommended)
1 cup water
1 tablespoon salted butter
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 cup low-fat milk
Pinch of nutmeg
14.5 oz. Protein Plus Spaghetti Pasta (Barilla brand recommended)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Dried parsley flakes for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions

Heat Olive Oil and Sauté Vegetables

Start by heating olive oil over medium heat in a large, deep pot. Once it’s hot, add the diced onion and finely chopped mushrooms. Sauté them until tender, which should take about 6 minutes. The aroma will be fantastic and will set the stage for the flavors to come.

Brown the Ground Beef

Next, add the ground beef. As it cooks, break it apart with a wooden spoon. Stir in the minced garlic and all the seasonings, letting everything cook together until the beef is browned and deliciously fragrant.

Combine Sauce and Simmer

Now, pour in the marinara sauce along with one cup of water. Give it a good stir to combine everything. Cover the pot, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Allow it to cook for 30 minutes to an hour. If the sauce starts to thicken too much, feel free to add a bit more water.

Cook the Pasta

While that’s simmering, cook the Protein Plus spaghetti in a large pot of boiling salted water according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain it and set it aside. It’s important not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

Prepare the Béchamel Sauce

In a small pot, melt the salted butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, sprinkle the flour over it and whisk to create a paste. This only needs to cook for about a minute. Now, slowly whisk in the milk, doing this in three parts. It’s crucial to let the sauce thicken a little between each addition. Don’t forget to add salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg to taste. The béchamel sauce is where the magic really happens!

Assemble the Baked Spaghetti

Now comes the fun part: it’s time to assemble! Pour the cooked spaghetti into a lightly greased 9×13 glass baking dish. Evenly top it with the rich meat sauce. Drizzle the creamy béchamel sauce over it, and then finish it off by sprinkling the grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Bake and Serve

Preheat your oven to 375°F, and bake your dish for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s hot and bubbly, with a lovely golden cheese crust on top. Cut the baked spaghetti into 12 squares and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

To complete your meal, consider pairing this Skinny Baked Spaghetti with a light salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette. Adding a slice of crusty whole-grain bread makes it feel even more fulfilling. This balance brings everything together beautifully!

Tips for Success

Make sure you’re using lean ground beef to keep the dish light. It makes a difference!
Don’t skip the béchamel sauce! It adds a rich, creamy layer that elevates the entire dish.
Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences for a more personalized touch.

Variations

Looking to mix it up? Here are a few variations:

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a different protein option.
For a vegetarian version, use lentils or a meat substitute.
Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When it’s time to reheat, you can use the oven or microwave. Just add a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the dish and refrigerate it unbaked. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s chilled.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! This baked spaghetti freezes well. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

4. What can I use instead of ground beef?
Feel free to use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option.

5. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce or mix in some hot sauce to give it an extra kick!

This Skinny Baked Spaghetti recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful fusion of flavors that brings comfort and satisfaction. With its nutritious ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. Enjoy every layer of deliciousness today and savor a hearty dish that keeps health goals in mind!