As I stood in my kitchen, stirring a bubbling pot of marinara sauce and inhaling the warm, savory scents, a sense of comfort washed over me. Nothing beats the joy of a homemade casserole, especially after a long day when you’re craving something hearty yet simple to prepare. Enter the delightful Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole—a dish that marries the beloved flavors of spaghetti and cheese with a buttery, flaky biscuit topping that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to whip up.
This recipe came to life during one of those moments when inspiration struck amidst the clanking of pans and the sound of laughter from friends gathered around my table. With a few pantry staples and a nod to the iconic Cheddar Bay biscuits, this casserole is more than just food; it’s a comforting embrace, a crowd-pleaser, and a welcomed change from the usual fast-food routine.
So grab your favorite pot, and let’s dive into the deliciousness of this Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole together—trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Why is Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole a Hit?
Comforting Flavors: The melding of marinara, ricotta, and cheddar brings a rich depth to every bite.
Easily Prepped: With just 25 minutes of prep, you can get this dish into the oven and onto your table in no time.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will adore the combination of pasta and cheesy goodness topped with warm biscuits.
Unique Twist: A delicious nod to the famous Cheddar Bay biscuits makes this casserole stand out from traditional recipes.
Satisfying & Hearty: Perfect for chilly nights or any get-together, it guarantees warmth and satisfaction with every serving.
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this crowd-pleasing dish, and for more comforting ideas, check out my Baked Ziti recipe!
Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole Ingredients
For the Spaghetti Base
• 10 oz spaghetti noodles – uncooked and ready to soak up delicious flavors.
• 1 lb lean ground beef – gives this casserole its hearty foundation.
• 1 medium yellow onion – diced, to add sweetness and depth.
• 1 tablespoon chopped garlic – enhances the dish with aromatic goodness.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – a must for bringing out all the flavors in the casserole.
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper – adds just the right amount of warmth.
• 24 oz marinara sauce – for that classic spaghetti flavor that comforts the soul.
For the Creamy Layer
• 16 oz ricotta – provides a creamy texture that balances the entire dish.
• 1/2 cup milk – helps to blend the ricotta into a smooth, spreadable mix.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning – a perfect blend of herbs to enhance the flavor.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – melts beautifully for that cheesy delight.
For the Biscuit Topping
• 1 box Red Lobster Cheddar Bay biscuit mix – the star ingredient that makes this casserole unforgettable!
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – to add an extra layer of cheesiness on top.
• 2 cups milk – combines with the biscuit mix for a fluffy topping.
• 1/4 cup butter, melted – brushed on top for a golden, rich finish.
This Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug for your taste buds. Gather your ingredients and let the baking begin!
How to Make Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole
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Preheat your oven to 350°F to create the perfect baking environment for your casserole. This ensures that the dish cooks evenly and achieves that delightful golden color.
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Boil a large pot of water and cook the spaghetti noodles for a couple of minutes less than the package instructions. Drain the spaghetti and set it aside to let it cool slightly.
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Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, crumbling it well as it cooks. This will create a hearty base packed with flavor.
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Add the diced onions to the skillet and cook until the beef is fully browned, soaking in the aromatic goodness.
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Stir in the chopped garlic, and continue cooking for 2 more minutes until fragrant, filling your kitchen with a savory aroma.
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Season with salt and pepper, stirring well to incorporate these essential flavors into your meat mixture.
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Pour in the marinara sauce and stir well, letting it meld with the beef and onions to create a rich sauce.
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Combine the cooked spaghetti noodles into the skillet, stirring until all noodles are well-coated with that delicious sauce.
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Prepare a 9 x 13 inch baking dish by spraying it with cooking spray to prevent sticking during baking.
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Layer about half of the spaghetti mixture into the baking dish, spreading it out evenly for a solid base.
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Mix in a bowl the ricotta, milk, and Italian seasoning; stir well until smooth and creamy.
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Spoon the ricotta mixture over the spaghetti, spreading it out evenly for a delightful creamy layer.
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Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the ricotta layer, giving that cheesy magic we all love.
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Top with the remaining spaghetti mixture, spreading it evenly over the cheese to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor.
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Combine the biscuit mix in a bowl, setting the seasoning packet aside. Add in the shredded cheddar cheese and milk; stir until no large lumps remain for that perfect biscuit batter.
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Pour the biscuit batter evenly over the spaghetti mixture in the baking dish, covering it lovingly with a fluffy layer.
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Bake the casserole in the oven for 50-55 minutes, or until the biscuit topping is nicely browned and cooked through.
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Remove the dish from the oven, allowing the warm, comforting aroma to envelop you as you prepare for the next step.
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Mix the biscuit seasoning packet with the melted butter, then brush this mixture over the biscuit topping for that extra burst of flavor.
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Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes; this helps the biscuit topping soak up the rich melted butter for added deliciousness.
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Slice, serve, and enjoy your comforting Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole with family or friends, delighting in each comforting bite!
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a lovely pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole?
Imagine the aroma of a hearty casserole wafting through your home, enticing everyone to gather around the table for a delicious meal together.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, this classic side is perfect for soaking up any extra marinara sauce. It adds a savory crunch that balances the dish’s richness.
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Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing bring refreshment to every plate, assisting in cutting through the casserole’s creaminess while adding a wonderful texture.
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Roasted Vegetables: Bright and colorful veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots enhance the meal’s visual appeal and introduce a wholesome element that complements the dish.
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Steamed Broccoli: With its vibrant green color and subtle flavor, steamed broccoli is a nutritious side that adds a pop of freshness to the plate. A squeeze of lemon over the top can elevate it even further!
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Apple Pie: Bring a sweet ending to your meal with a slice of warm, homemade apple pie. Its comforting, cinnamon-infused flavor beautifully contrasts with the savory elements of the casserole.
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Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine pairs wonderfully with the robust flavors of the Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole. It’s a simple yet elegant way to enhance your dining experience.
Elevate your meal with these delightful pairings that ensure every bite is as comforting and satisfying as the Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole itself.
How to Store and Freeze Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until heated through, ensuring the bubbly cheese and flavor return.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a tightly sealed, freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and taste.
Reheating: To reheat frozen Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole, bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, covering with foil to prevent the topping from browning too much.
Serving: If you have leftover biscuit topping, you can refresh it by brushing with melted butter before reheating for added flavor!
Expert Tips for Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole
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Cook Noodles Less: Undercook the spaghetti by a couple of minutes; it will absorb sauce during baking and prevent sogginess.
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Layer Wisely: Ensure an even distribution of ricotta and mozzarella; this guarantees every bite is gooey and cheesy.
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Monitor Baking: Keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes. If it browns too quickly, cover with foil to prevent burning while it cooks through.
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Rest for Flavor: Don’t skip the resting step! Letting the casserole sit for five minutes after baking allows flavors to meld and makes slicing easier.
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Customize Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like diced bell peppers or spinach for an extra veggie boost in the Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole.
Make Ahead Options
This Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole is a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you valuable time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance—simply follow the recipe through to the assembly step and cover tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. To maintain the dish’s delicious quality, be sure to cool the casserole before wrapping, which helps prevent condensation. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. This way, you can enjoy a comforting homemade meal with minimal effort, making the dinner rush a breeze!
Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this casserole to make it your own delicious masterpiece!
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Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with mushrooms or lentils for a hearty but meatless option. They’ll soak up all the delicious sauce flavors beautifully.
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Whole Wheat: Use whole wheat spaghetti for added fiber and a nutty twist while still delivering the comfort you crave.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to bring just the right amount of heat to this cozy dish.
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Creamier Texture: Fold in some cream cheese with the ricotta mixture for an even richer, creamier layer throughout the casserole.
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Herbed Biscuit Topping: Sprinkle fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the biscuit mix for an aromatic depth that elevates the dish.
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Cheddar Alternatives: Swap the cheddar cheese for pepper jack or gouda to create a unique flavor twist that’s still oh-so cheesy!
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Extra Veggies: Mix in sautéed bell peppers or spinach into the meat sauce for a nutritional boost and added texture.
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Italian Sausage: Replace the ground beef with Italian sausage for a flavorful, savory twist that adds a wonderful spice to the casserole.
Let your imagination run wild with these variations, making this Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole a dish that’s uniquely yours!
Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of spaghetti should I use?
Absolutely! For this Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole, I recommend using traditional spaghetti noodles. However, you can also opt for whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti if you prefer a healthier alternative or have dietary restrictions.
How should I store leftovers?
To keep your Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy delicious leftovers without losing flavor. Simply reheat portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Very! Freezing the Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole is a great option for meal prep or saving leftovers. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer it to a tightly sealed, freezer-safe dish. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What should I do if the casserole is too dry?
If you notice your Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole turns out a bit dry, don’t worry! You can add a splash of marinara sauce or milk to the leftovers before reheating to bring back some moisture. Also, make sure to keep an eye on the baking time, as overbaking can dry it out.
Is this recipe pet-friendly?
While the Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole contains ingredients that are safe for humans, it’s not advisable to share it with pets. Ingredients like garlic and large amounts of cheese can be harmful to dogs and cats, so it’s best to keep this comforting dish for your family only!
How do I make my biscuit topping fluffier?
For a fluffier biscuit topping on your Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole, ensure not to over-mix the biscuit batter. Stir until just combined—this helps keep it light and airy. You can also add a bit more milk if you prefer a softer texture in the batter before pouring it over the casserole.
Cheddar Bay Spaghetti Casserole: A Comfort Food Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Boil a large pot of water and cook the spaghetti noodles for a couple of minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced onions and cook until the beef is browned.
- Stir in the chopped garlic and cook for 2 more minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper, stirring well.
- Pour in the marinara sauce and stir well.
- Combine the cooked spaghetti noodles into the skillet, stirring until well-coated.
- Prepare a 9 x 13 inch baking dish by spraying it with cooking spray.
- Layer half of the spaghetti mixture into the baking dish.
- Mix the ricotta, milk, and Italian seasoning in a bowl until smooth.
- Spoon the ricotta mixture over the spaghetti, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta layer.
- Top with the remaining spaghetti mixture.
- Combine the biscuit mix with shredded cheddar cheese and milk, stirring until no lumps remain.
- Pour the biscuit batter over the spaghetti mixture.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the biscuit topping is browned.
- Remove the dish from the oven.
- Mix the biscuit seasoning packet with melted butter and brush over the biscuit topping.
- Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy.