Easy Baked Spaghetti Fazoli’s Recipe – Just Like the Restaurant Version

If you’ve ever sat down at Fazoli’s and taken that first cheesy, saucy bite of their baked spaghetti, you know exactly why it’s such a fan favorite. There’s just something about those tender pasta layers smothered in savory meat sauce, topped with gooey mozzarella and baked until golden and bubbly, it’s comfort food at its finest.

Now, what if I told you that you could recreate that same restaurant-style magic right in your own kitchen?

This easy baked spaghetti Fazoli’s recipe brings all that flavor home, with simple ingredients, clear steps, and a few secret tips to make it taste just like the original (if not better). Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a cozy date night, or meal prepping for the week, this dish checks all the boxes: easy, affordable, crowd-pleasing, and downright delicious.

In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need, from ingredient swaps to pro baking tips, so you can master this copycat classic with confidence. Let’s dig in and bring a little Fazoli’s magic to your table.

🧀 Why You’ll Love This baked spaghetti fazoli’s recipe​

This isn’t just any baked spaghetti recipe. This one’s special because it captures everything you love about Fazoli’s famous version, and brings it home with a few upgrades to make it even better.

Here’s why this dish is going to earn a regular spot in your dinner rotation:

✅ It Tastes Just Like the Restaurant (If Not Better)

We’ve nailed the balance of sweet-savory sauce, creamy melted cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta ,just like Fazoli’s. The best part? You can tweak it to your liking.

🍝 Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

You don’t need anything fancy to pull this off. Pantry staples like spaghetti, marinara sauce, mozzarella, and ground beef come together in the most comforting way.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing

This is one of those dishes everyone loves, from picky kids to hungry adults. It’s cheesy, satisfying, and perfect for gatherings or leftovers the next day.

🔄 Make-Ahead & Freezer Friendly

Busy week? This baked spaghetti reheats like a dream. You can make it ahead, freeze it, or portion it out for easy lunches.

🧄 Customizable Just the Way You Like It

Want to add garlic butter drizzle like Fazoli’s? Go for it. Prefer sausage instead of ground beef? Done. Want to make it meatless? No problem. This recipe is flexible and forgiving.

🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need

This baked spaghetti Fazoli’s recipe is rich, cheesy, and completely comforting, without any pork, bacon, ham, or wine. Just simple, wholesome ingredients that come together in the perfect weeknight dinner.

🍝 Pasta & Sauce Base

• 12 oz thin spaghetti – Thin spaghetti closely matches what Fazoli’s uses. Cook it al dente so it holds up during baking.
• 3 cups marinara sauce – Choose a tomato-based sauce with a slightly sweet note to mimic Fazoli’s signature flavor.
• 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional) – Boosts the richness of the sauce.

🥩 Protein

• 1 lb ground beef – Lean ground beef works great here. It’s flavorful, kid-friendly, and totally pork-free.
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2–3 cloves fresh garlic, minced

🔄 Meatless Option: Swap the beef for mushrooms, lentils, or your favorite plant-based crumble for a vegetarian version.

🧀 Cheese Layers

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – For that bubbly, melty layer on top.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds depth and a little saltiness.
• ½ cup ricotta cheese (optional) – Creates a creamy texture in the middle layers (totally optional).

🧄 Seasonings & Aromatics

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp dried basil
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing the onion and garlic

✨ Optional Toppings & Extras

• Garlic butter drizzle – Combine melted butter, garlic powder, and chopped parsley for that authentic Fazoli’s finish.
• Breadcrumb topping (optional) – Mix with olive oil and a touch of Parmesan for a crunchy golden layer.

🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions (With Pro Tips)

This easy baked spaghetti Fazoli’s recipe comes together in just a few steps, cook the pasta, build the meat sauce, layer it all up, and bake to cheesy, bubbly perfection.

Let’s break it down:

🍝 Step 1 – Cook the Spaghetti

1. Start by heating a big pot of salted water until it reaches a steady boil.
2. Add thin spaghetti and cook until al dente (firm to the bite), usually about 1–2 minutes less than package directions.
3. Drain and toss lightly with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t overcook the pasta! It will continue to soften in the oven, so keeping it slightly underdone helps avoid a mushy texture.

🍳 Step 2 – Make the Meat Sauce

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until soft (about 3–4 minutes).
3. Add the minced garlic and cook briefly, just about 30 seconds, until it becomes fragrant.
4. Toss in the ground beef and cook, breaking it into crumbles as it browns evenly.
5. Drain any excess fat if needed.
6. Stir in the marinara sauce, tomato paste (if using), and seasonings: Italian seasoning, basil, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer on low heat for 5–10 minutes, allowing flavors to blend.

💡 Pro Tip: Want to mimic Fazoli’s signature sweet sauce? Add a tiny pinch of sugar or a splash of carrot juice for natural sweetness.

🧀 Step 3 – Layer the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Add a thin layer of meat sauce to the bottom of the dish.
4. Spread half of the cooked spaghetti on top.
5. Spoon more meat sauce over the pasta.
6. Add dollops of ricotta (if using), then sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan.
7. Repeat: remaining pasta → sauce → cheeses.
8. Optional: Top with garlic butter drizzle or breadcrumbs for extra flavor and crunch.

💡 Pro Tip: For a clean, firm slice after baking, let the layers settle for 10–15 minutes before serving.

🔥 Step 4 – Bake It to Perfection

1. Lightly cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the oven for 20 minutes
2. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until cheese is golden and bubbling.

💡 Optional Finish: Broil on high for 2 minutes at the end for that irresistible bubbly cheese top, just keep an eye on it!

🧠 Copycat Tips to Make It Taste Just Like Fazoli’s

If you’ve ever wondered what gives Fazoli’s baked spaghetti that craveable, comforting edge, you’re not alone. The good news? With a few easy tricks, you can get that same flavor, and maybe even better, right at home.

Here’s how to level up your homemade version:

🧄 1. Add Garlic Butter Drizzle (Fazoli’s Signature Move)

Fazoli’s is famous for slathering their breadsticks, and sometimes their pasta, with a buttery garlic finish. To replicate that flavor:

• Melt 2 tbsp butter
• Stir in ½ tsp garlic powder and a pinch of dried parsley
• Drizzle over your baked spaghetti before serving

💡 Bonus: Brush the garlic butter onto the top layer of cheese before baking to infuse even more flavor.

🧀 2. Use a Whole Milk Mozzarella for Better Melt

For that gooey, stretchy cheese pull that hits different, use whole milk mozzarella instead of part-skim. It melts better and gives a creamier finish, just like in the restaurant.

🍅 3. Match That Slightly Sweet Marinara Flavor

Fazoli’s marinara leans ever-so-slightly sweet. You can achieve this by:

• Adding ½ tsp sugar to your sauce
• Or using a marinara brand labeled “sweet basil” or “classic Italian”

🔄 Avoid overly spicy or acidic sauces, they won’t match the nostalgic flavor profile.

🧂 4. Don’t Skip the Layering

Layering isn’t just for lasagna. To mimic the way Fazoli’s bakes theirs:

• Start with sauce on the bottom (prevents sticking)
• Build two full layers: pasta → sauce → cheese
• End with cheese on top for that golden finish

💡 This also helps each bite have flavor, moisture, and texture, no bland pasta here.

🍽️ 5. Serve It Like Fazoli’s

Presentation matters. Serve this baked spaghetti with:

• Garlic breadsticks or garlic toast
• A simple Caesar salad
• And a sprinkle of extra Parmesan just before serving

🥡 Storage & Reheating Tips

One of the best parts about this baked spaghetti Fazoli’s recipe is how well it holds up for leftovers. Whether you’re planning ahead for a busy week or just don’t want any of that cheesy goodness to go to waste, here’s how to store and reheat it like a pro.

🧊 How to Store Leftover Baked Spaghetti

In the Fridge:

• Let the dish cool completely.
• Store in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
• Keeps fresh in the fridge for 3–4 days.

In the Freezer:

• Transfer cooled portions to freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap.
• Label and date them.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

💡 Tip: Freeze individual portions for quick lunches or weeknight dinners.

🔥 How to Reheat Without Drying It Out

In the Oven (Best Method):

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
2. Place leftover spaghetti in an oven-safe dish
3. Add a spoonful of marinara or a splash of water to keep it moist
4. Cover loosely with foil
5. Heat for 20–25 minutes, or until warmed through

In the Microwave (Quick Method):

1. Place a single portion on a microwave-safe plate
2. Place a damp paper towel over the top to help retain moisture while reheating.
3. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between
4. Total time: about 1½–2 minutes

💡 Re-sprinkle with mozzarella or Parmesan before reheating for that fresh-baked feel.

🍴 Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This baked spaghetti Fazoli’s recipe is a star all on its own, but let’s be honest: every great pasta night deserves a few delicious sidekicks. Here are some easy and crowd-pleasing ideas to turn this into a full-on restaurant-style meal at home.

🥖 Garlic Breadsticks or Garlic Toast

It wouldn’t be a true Fazoli’s copycat meal without warm, buttery garlic breadsticks on the side. You can:

• Bake store-bought frozen breadsticks and brush with garlic butter
• Or make quick homemade garlic toast with sliced baguette, butter, and garlic powder

💡 Tip: Use the same garlic butter drizzle from earlier on your bread for a flavor match.

🥗 Crisp Caesar Salad

A fresh, crunchy Caesar salad balances the richness of the baked spaghetti. It’s light, flavorful, and only takes minutes to throw together. Add:

• Romaine lettuce
• Parmesan shavings
• Croutons
• Caesar dressing
• Optional: Cherry tomatoes or lemon wedge

🧃 Simple Beverage Pairings

Keep it classic and kid-friendly:

• Sweet iced tea
• Sparkling water with lemon
• Grape juice or apple spritzers for a mocktail vibe

🍰 Dessert Ideas (Because Why Not?)

If you really want the full restaurant experience, finish the meal with a sweet treat. Try:

• Tiramisu (store-bought or homemade)
• Chocolate lava cake
• Mini cannoli or Italian cookies

🔄 Want to keep it easy? Serve vanilla ice cream topped with espresso or chocolate syrup.

🧩 Pro Hosting Tip:

Serving this dish for a crowd? Set up an “Italian night” theme with small appetizer plates, mini salads, and a dessert platter. It’s a great way to elevate a simple family dinner or impress dinner guests, with minimal effort.

FAQ – Baked Spaghetti Fazoli’s Recipe

🙌 Final Thoughts on This Easy Baked Spaghetti Fazoli’s Recipe

There’s nothing quite like digging into a plate of warm, cheesy baked spaghetti, and this easy baked spaghetti Fazoli’s recipe brings that classic comfort straight from the restaurant into your kitchen. With just a few everyday ingredients and a handful of simple steps, you’ve got a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish that tastes just like the real thing (maybe even better!).

Whether you’re recreating a nostalgic favorite or just need a no-fuss dinner that delivers big flavor, this recipe checks all the boxes: cozy, creamy, saucy, and totally delicious.

Now it’s your turn! If you give this recipe a try:

• Drop a comment below and share how it worked out for you!
• Snap a photo and tag it on social (great for engagement)
• And don’t forget to bookmark or pin this recipe to save for later!

🍽️ Love This Baked Spaghetti Recipe? Try These Next!

If this easy baked spaghetti Fazoli’s recipe hit the spot, you’re going to love what’s next! Here are a few more comforting, crowd-pleasing dishes from the blog that keep the flavors big and the prep simple:

• 🍔 Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup – A cozy, creamy one-pot wonder the whole family will devour.
• 🧀 Cracker Barrel Macaroni and Cheese – Ultra cheesy, oven-baked, and straight-up nostalgic.
• 🍗 Marry Me Chicken Pasta – Creamy, dreamy, and packed with flavor, this one might just steal your heart.
• 🌶️ Cheesy Beef Taco Pasta – Taco night meets pasta night in this ultra-satisfying mashup.
• 🌴 Jerk Chicken Pasta (Bahama Breeze Style) – A bold, Caribbean-inspired twist on pasta night that’s full of kick.

✨ Bookmark your favorites, share with friends, or build your very own comfort food rotation straight from the blog. Every recipe is packed with flavor and made for real-life kitchens, just like yours.