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Spaghetti Brain Bake

Spaghetti Brain Bake

Spaghetti Brain Bake is a fun twist on comfort food, perfect for spooky gatherings and busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Classic Comfort Food
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces spaghetti This classic pasta serves as the foundation for our brain bake.
For the Sauce
  • 3 cups marinara sauce The vibrant flavor of marinara adds a deliciously rich layer to the dish.
For the Cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese This melty cheese creates that ooey-gooey top we all love.
Optional Protein
  • 1 pound ground beef or sausage Adding this gives your Spaghetti Brain Bake a heartier, meatier flavor if desired.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Bundt pan
  • Spatula
  • Oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, promptly drain the pasta in a colander and give it a quick rinse under cold water to stop further cooking. Set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the sauce.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained spaghetti with 3 cups of marinara sauce and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese for a cheesy, flavorful blend. If you’re opting for a heartier version, add in the seasoned ground beef or sausage. Mix everything together until the pasta is well-coated and you can see the vibrant red sauce throughout the mixture.
  3. Grease a bundt pan well to ensure easy release later, or you can freestyle by molding the pasta into a brain shape directly on a baking sheet. Use your hands to press and shape the spaghetti mixture tightly, creating folds and ridges that mimic a brain's texture for that eye-catching effect.
  4. Carefully arrange the spaghetti strands to enhance the brain-like appearance—think of how folds might look. Use additional marinara sauce to create 'bloody' detail over the top, ensuring it seeps into the grooves.
  5. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the pasta, covering every visible area. This layer will melt beautifully and create an appealing, bubbly crust as it bakes.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once it’s ready, place your assembled Spaghetti Brain Bake in the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
  7. After baking, carefully remove your Spaghetti Brain Bake from the oven. Let it cool for about 10 minutes to allow the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to slice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Ensure your spaghetti is tightly packed to create defined folds, and don't skimp on the marinara sauce before baking for the best look and flavor.

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