Beef-Spaghetti Casserole
A hearty beef and cheese casserole with savory tomato sauce, layered with pasta and baked until bubbly—perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Add spaghetti sauce to the cooked beef.
- Pour 1 cup of water into the sauce mixture.
- In a bowl, mix grated mozzarella cheese, cottage cheese, and eggs.
- Pour 1 cup of spaghetti sauce on the bottom of a long cake pan.
- Layer the cheese mixture over the sauce layer.
- Repeat layering if desired, ending with a layer of sauce on top.
- Cover the casserole with foil.
- Bake for 1 hour in the preheated oven.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms. You can also use whole wheat lasagna for a healthier option. If you want to add more vegetables, try incorporating spinach or zucchini to add flavor and nutrition. Consider using a blend of Italian cheeses for a richer taste.
Serving Suggestions
This Beef-Spaghetti Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad and garlic bread. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a side of steamed broccoli. You can also sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for added flavor before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef-Spaghetti Casserole contains roughly 596 calories, with 34g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (68% of the Daily Value), calcium (52% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 937mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
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 freeze the Beef-Spaghetti Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the baking instructions.
How long does it take to prepare this casserole?
Preparation time for the Beef-Spaghetti Casserole is approximately 20-30 minutes, including browning the beef and assembling the layers. Baking time is about 1 hour, so plan for a total of around 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish.
Can I substitute the cottage cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cottage cheese with ricotta cheese for a creamier texture, or you can use a dairy-free alternative if needed. Adjusting the cheese type can change the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious!
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).