As a student, cooking meals can often feel overwhelming and time-consuming. However, with a few simple ingredients and an easy recipe, you can create a delicious and filling dish that will satisfy your hunger without breaking the bank.

One such recipe is the 5 Ingredient Baked Spaghetti, which is not only budget-friendly but also super easy to make. Let’s dive in and learn how to whip up this student-friendly meal.

Ingredients:

1. 8 ounces of spaghetti noodles.

2. 1 jar (24 ounces) of marinara sauce.

3. 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.

4. 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.

5. 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano.

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the cooked noodles and set them aside.

3. In a medium-sized bowl, mix the marinara sauce and dried oregano.

4. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the marinara sauce mixture on the bottom.

5. Add half of the cooked spaghetti noodles on top of the sauce.

6. Pour half of the remaining marinara sauce over the noodles, followed by half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

7. Repeat the layers, using the remaining noodles, sauce, and cheeses.

8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.

9. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

10. Remove the baked spaghetti from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Why Choose Baked Spaghetti for Student Meals?

Baked spaghetti is an ideal option for student meals due to the following reasons:.

1. Easy to make: This recipe requires only five ingredients and a few simple steps. You don’t need to be an experienced chef to make a delicious meal.

2. Affordable: Spaghetti noodles, marinara sauce, and cheese can be bought at an affordable price, making this dish perfect for those on a tight budget.

3. Leftovers: Baked spaghetti is a great dish for meal prepping as it can be easily reheated for future meals. You can make a large batch and enjoy it over a few days.

4. Customizable: While this recipe uses basic ingredients, you can customize it to your taste by adding vegetables, cooked meat, or spices.

5. Comfort food: Baked spaghetti is a classic comfort food that will warm you up on cold or stressful days. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that can boost your mood.

Tips and Variations:

1. To add some extra flavor, sauté minced garlic in olive oil before mixing it with the marinara sauce.

2. If you prefer a meaty dish, you can cook ground beef or Italian sausage and layer it in between the spaghetti noodles and sauce.

3. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like diced bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the sauce for added nutrition.

4. For a crispy topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle it over the cheese before baking.

5. If you’re a fan of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the marinara sauce.

Summary:

Baked spaghetti is a student’s best friend when it comes to quick, easy, and affordable meals. With only five ingredients and a simple recipe, you can enjoy a hearty and delicious dish that will satisfy your hunger.

Customize it to your taste and make extra for leftovers. This comfort food is a surefire way to make your student life a little tastier and more enjoyable!.