Description
This Baked Spaghetti with Turkey Bacon is a comforting dish featuring al dente spaghetti, crispy turkey bacon, and sautéed vegetables, all topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, its both hearty and delicious!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 6 slices turkey bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color you prefer)
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Once cooked, drain the spaghetti in a colander and set it aside. Toss it with a little olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped turkey bacon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is crispy.
- Remove the turkey bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings in the skillet for flavor.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened and the onion is translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- In the skillet with the sautéed vegetables, add the cooked turkey bacon back in.
- Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the tomato sauce. Stir well to combine.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Stir and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained spaghetti with the turkey bacon and vegetable mixture. Toss until well coated.
- Transfer half of the spaghetti mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the first layer of spaghetti.
- Add the remaining spaghetti mixture on top, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden.
- For an extra crispy top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes to help the layers set.
- Before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
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Notes
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand.
- This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes