Go Back
Homemade Garlic Bread Spaghetti Bake with Mozzarella Crown recipe photo

Garlic Bread Spaghetti Bake with Mozzarella Crown

This Garlic Bread Spaghetti Bake with Mozzarella Crown is a comforting, cheesy, and hearty one-dish meal that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces spaghetti pasta cooked al dente
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing garlic and infusing flavor
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjustable to taste
  • 28 ounces crushed tomatoes 1 can
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1 cup turkey bacon cooked and crumbled
  • 1 loaf garlic bread loaf, sliced horizontally
  • fresh basil leaves for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing Spoon
  • Spatula
  • Cheese grater
  • Oven mitts

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 9-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant but not browned, about 1-2 minutes. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then stir in oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10-15 minutes to develop flavor.
  3. Stir the shredded cooked chicken and crumbled turkey bacon into the tomato sauce. Allow the mixture to heat through for another 2-3 minutes.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the garlic bread loaf horizontally and place the bottom half in the bottom of your baking dish. Spread half of the sauce mixture evenly over the bread, then layer half of the cooked spaghetti on top. Sprinkle half of the Parmesan cheese and a cup of mozzarella over the pasta.
    Add the remaining spaghetti and sauce mixture in another layer. Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese and mozzarella. Place the top half of the garlic bread loaf over the entire dish, pressing down lightly.
  5. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the garlic bread is toasted. For an extra golden top, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes but watch carefully to avoid burning.
  6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before slicing and serving this mouthwatering Garlic Bread Spaghetti Bake with Mozzarella Crown.

Notes

  • Cook spaghetti just until al dente to avoid mushy noodles after baking.
  • Sauté garlic gently to prevent bitterness from burning.
  • Assemble the bake ahead but add mozzarella crown right before baking for best texture.
  • Freeze the assembled bake before baking for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before cooking.
  • Use slightly toasted garlic bread to prevent sogginess in the finished dish.