Indulge in a culinary journey with the tantalizing flavors of Tucci Benucch Baked Spaghetti.
This Italian-inspired dish combines the richness of baked spaghetti with a savory blend of cheeses and herbs,
creating a dish that is sure to delight your taste buds.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a dinner party,
this recipe is bound to impress with its comforting flavors and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
For the Spaghetti:
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Equipment
- Large pot
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil and set aside.
Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until softened.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes.
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and chopped parsley.
Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss until evenly coated.
Transfer half of the spaghetti mixture to the prepared baking dish.
Spread the cheese mixture over the spaghetti.
Top with the remaining spaghetti mixture and sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese on top.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Tucci Benucch Baked Spaghetti!
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 380
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 420mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 49g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
Health Benefits
Indulging in Tucci Benucch Baked Spaghetti provides not only a satisfying taste experience but also some nutritional benefits.
This dish is rich in protein from the cheeses and eggs, offering essential amino acids for muscle repair and growth.
Additionally, the tomatoes in the sauce provide a good dose of vitamin C and lycopene, known for their antioxidant properties that may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
The whole wheat spaghetti adds fiber, aiding digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness, which can assist in weight management.
However, moderation is key, as this dish is also moderately high in calories and sodium.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute fresh herbs for dried ones. Use three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I serve with Tucci Benucch Baked Spaghetti?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. Simply ensure you’re using vegetarian-friendly cheese varieties.