Adeline'S Spaghetti Casserole
Adeline's Spaghetti Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish combining ground beef, spaghetti, and tomato flavors, perfect for family dinners and satisfying hungry appetites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain off the grease.
- Place the cooked meat in a 10 x 13-inch pan and add chopped onion, green pepper, and margarine.
- Break up uncooked spaghetti into the meat mixture.
- Pour tomato juice and tomato paste over the mixture.
- Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes, stirring three times during cooking.
- Optional: add cheese on top and bake a little longer before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing minced garlic along with the onions and peppers. You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option, or use gluten-free pasta if you're avoiding gluten. For a vegetarian version, replace the beef with a mix of sautéed vegetables or lentils. Adding a sprinkle of Italian herbs can enhance the dish's taste, similar to our Beefy Chili Soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving can elevate the dish. For a heartier option, pair it with a vegetable medley or steamed broccoli. It also works well alongside classic American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat in an oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes. Ensure it's warmed all the way through before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Adeline'S Spaghetti Casserole contains roughly 924 calories, with 36g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 73g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (72% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (44% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium.
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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated thoroughly.
Can I freeze the spaghetti casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until heated through.
What can I add for extra flavor?
You can enhance the flavor by adding Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, or even some diced olives or pepperoni. For a creamier texture, a layer of ricotta cheese can be added before baking. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or cheeses to suit your taste.
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).