Charlotte'S Hamburger Spaghetti Casserole
A hearty casserole blending savory ground beef, spicy tomatoes, creamy sour cream, and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Cook spaghetti noodles until al dente.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked ground beef, cooked spaghetti, sour cream, Lipton onion soup mix, Ro-Tel tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 to 35 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese to the sour cream mixture. If you're short on time, pre-cooked spaghetti can be used, but be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Adding extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can enhance the dish and boost nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a fun twist, serve with a dollop of salsa or guacamole on top. You might also enjoy it alongside other comforting dishes like Potato Round Casserole for a satisfying dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Charlotte'S Hamburger Spaghetti Casserole contains roughly 363 calories, with 21g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. At about 363 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it completely, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the preheated oven to bake.
What can I use instead of Ro-Tel tomatoes?
If you can't find Ro-Tel tomatoes, you can use a can of diced tomatoes mixed with a small amount of diced green chilies for a similar flavor. Alternatively, plain diced tomatoes can work, and you can add a pinch of chili powder or hot sauce to introduce some heat.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
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).