1. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook the spaghetti 2 minutes less than the package instructions (since it will bake later).
• Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Meat Sauce

• In a large pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
• In the same pan, add the minced beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
• Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
• Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
• Add oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and sugar.
• Simmer for 10-15 minutes to blend flavors.
• Mix in the cooked bacon and remove from heat.

3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture

• In a bowl, mix ricotta (or cottage cheese) with heavy cream, egg, salt, black pepper, and Parmesan.
• Set aside.

4. Assemble the Dish

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce.
• Add half of the cooked spaghetti.
• Spread half of the cheese mixture on top.
• Add another layer of meat sauce, then repeat with the remaining spaghetti and cheese mixture.
• Pour the remaining sauce over everything.
• Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

5. Bake

• Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

6. Serve

• Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

 For extra smokiness, use smoked bacon or pancetta.
 Make it spicy by adding more red pepper flakes.
 Try different cheeses, like provolone or gouda, for a unique twist.
 Add vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach, to the meat sauce for extra nutrition.

This baked spaghetti is creamy, cheesy, meaty, and utterly delicious—the kind of dish everyone will want seconds of! Would you like to pair it with a side?