1-2-3 Spaghetti
A hearty and cheesy spaghetti dish featuring ground beef, tomato soup, and Parmesan, perfect for family dinners and quick weeknight meals with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat; drain excess fat.
- Add cooked spaghetti and tomato soup to the skillet; toss lightly to combine.
- Microwave the processed cheese spread as directed on the label.
- Stir the melted cheese into the spaghetti mixture.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or chopped onions when browning the beef. If you're out of tomato soup, crushed tomatoes or a jar of marinara can be used as substitutes. To save time, cook your spaghetti while browning the beef. This dish is a great base for experimenting with other Italian recipes by adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the 1-2-3 Spaghetti with a side salad for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks make excellent accompaniments, soaking up the delicious sauce. For a fun twist, pair it with a glass of red wine or a sparkling Italian soda. This dish would also pair beautifully with Easy Ziti Casserole for a comforting meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also add a splash of water or extra tomato soup to keep the dish moist while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 1-2-3 Spaghetti contains roughly 289 calories, with 18g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. At about 289 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives can work well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if using leaner meats to avoid drying them out.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply replace the ground beef with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of beef for added flavor, and stick to the original tomato soup to ensure a delicious vegetarian option.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Certainly! You can prepare the spaghetti and sauce in advance, then combine them just before serving. Store the components separately in the fridge, and reheat them together on the stove or in the microwave when ready to enjoy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).