Baked Spaghetti with Minced Beef and Bacon

Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Drizzle in 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Meat Sauce:

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving a little bacon fat in the pan.

In the same pan, sauté the onion and garlic until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

Add the crispy bacon back into the sauce and stir to combine.

Assemble the Dish:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large baking dish, layer the cooked spaghetti and pour the meat sauce over the top. Stir to combine and spread evenly.

Top and Bake:

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and sauce mixture.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Serving and Storage Tips: