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Step 1: Prepare the Bolognese Sauce
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing them until soft and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes. Next, add the grated carrot and chopped celery, and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Now, add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet. Cook until the meat is browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once the meat is browned, add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar. Stir everything together, and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes. If you’re using red wine, add it now and let it cook down for about 5 minutes before adding the broth. Add the beef broth and let the sauce simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti
While the Bolognese sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water. Set the pasta aside.
Step 3: Layer the Stack
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a round casserole dish.
Start by spooning a layer of the Bolognese sauce at the bottom of the dish to create a base. Next, add a layer of spaghetti, spreading it evenly over the sauce. Top the pasta with more Bolognese sauce, followed by a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Repeat the layers—pasta, sauce, cheese—until all the ingredients are used up, making sure the top layer is generously covered with cheese. You can use some of the reserved pasta cooking water to loosen the sauce if it feels too thick.
Step 4: Bake the Stack
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top. For an extra crispy top, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes—just keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the Cheesy Spaghetti Bolognese Stack is out of the oven, let it sit for about 5 minutes to cool slightly and allow the layers to set. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Slice the stack into squares or wedges and serve with a side salad and some garlic bread for the perfect meal!
Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Spaghetti Bolognese Stack
- Make Ahead: This dish can easily be prepared in advance. Prepare the Bolognese sauce and layer the pasta and cheese in the baking dish. Cover and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven and bake until golden and bubbly.
- Use a Variety of Cheeses: While mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, you can experiment with other cheeses such as cheddar, provolone, or ricotta for different flavors and textures.
- Vegetarian Version: You can easily make this dish vegetarian by swapping the ground meat for lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based ground meat. The rest of the ingredients stay the same, and you’ll still get a deliciously cheesy and comforting meal.
- Add Some Veggies: You can sneak in more vegetables by adding zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers to the Bolognese sauce. They’ll blend in nicely and add extra nutrients to the dish.
- Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the Bolognese sauce for a spicy kick.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Spaghetti Bolognese Stack is a fun, cheesy twist on a classic pasta dish that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. With layers of flavorful Bolognese sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and melted cheese, this dish brings comfort food to a whole new level. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is a guaranteed winner.
So, next time you’re craving a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying meal, give this Cheesy Spaghetti Bolognese Stack a try—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
