Spaghetti isn’t just a one-note pasta, it’s the base for all kinds of inventive meals, from creamy casseroles to bold, spicy sauces and even pizza-style bakes. These recipes show how far you can take a single noodle with just a few extra ingredients. Whether you’re looking for comfort food, something low-carb, or a family-friendly twist, there’s a spaghetti dish here that delivers on flavor and fun. Here are 12 spaghetti recipes that go way beyond marinara.
Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
This casserole combines cooked spaghetti with shredded chicken, cream-based sauce, and cheese. It’s creamy, hearty, and bakes with a golden top. Great for feeding a crowd or making ahead. Add diced peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Andouille Sausage Spaghetti
Spicy and smoky andouille sausage brings heat and depth to this simple spaghetti dish. Pair it with a tomato-based sauce or olive oil and garlic. The sausage flavor seeps into the pasta as it cooks. Serve with parsley and grated cheese.
Get the Recipe: Andouille Sausage Spaghetti
Spaghetti Pie
This baked dish layers spaghetti with sauce, cheese, and eggs to create a sliceable pie. It holds together well and cuts cleanly. Great for reheating or serving at potlucks. A new way to enjoy leftovers too.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Pie
Mediterranean Zucchini Spaghetti
Zucchini noodles or spaghetti get tossed with olives, tomatoes, feta, and olive oil. It’s light, fresh, and full of flavor. Add chickpeas or grilled chicken for more protein. Serve warm or chilled for a flexible meal.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Zucchini Spaghetti
Alfredo Spaghetti
Creamy Alfredo sauce coats spaghetti in a rich, smooth layer. It’s a change from the usual fettuccine but just as comforting. Add peas, mushrooms, or grilled chicken to round it out. Don’t forget the black pepper and parmesan.
Get the Recipe: Alfredo Spaghetti
Spaghetti Pizza
Spaghetti serves as the crust in this baked dish topped with sauce, cheese, and pizza toppings. The noodles get crisp around the edges while staying soft in the middle. It’s fun to make and even more fun to eat. Good for using up leftovers too.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Pizza
Instant Pot Taco Spaghetti
This one-pot meal combines taco flavors with spaghetti, using ground beef, tomatoes, and cheese. The Instant Pot makes it fast and flavorful. Add black beans or corn for extra texture. Top with avocado or sour cream to finish.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Taco Spaghetti
Spaghetti Arrabbiata
This fiery tomato sauce gets its heat from red pepper flakes and garlic. It’s simple but bold and best served with al dente spaghetti. A great meatless option that still packs punch. Finish with fresh basil or parsley.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Arrabbiata
Spaghetti Alfredo with Broccoli
This dish adds steamed broccoli to creamy Alfredo spaghetti for a bit of balance. The broccoli cuts through the richness and adds color. Grate extra cheese over the top for a finishing touch. A one-bowl meal with greens built in.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Alfredo with Broccoli
Spaghetti Casserole
Baked spaghetti with tomato sauce and layers of cheese makes for a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal. The pasta holds up well to baking and reheating. Some versions use ground beef or sausage. Add a crisp green salad on the side.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole
Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
Cream cheese adds a smooth, tangy base to this baked pasta dish. Mixed into hot spaghetti, it melts into a rich sauce before baking with more cheese on top. It’s indulgent and comforting. Good for weeknights or gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti
Low Carb Spaghetti Bolognese
This version swaps traditional pasta for zucchini noodles or other low-carb alternatives. The meat sauce is thick, hearty, and full of tomato flavor. Simmer it long for maximum depth. Top with grated cheese or fresh herbs.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Spaghetti Bolognese
