Cheese Spaghetti Bake
A hearty baked spaghetti dish layered with savory meat, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheeses, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger meat and chopped onions in a skillet.
- Add tomato sauce, whole tomatoes, oregano, salt, basil, and parsley to the skillet.
- Simmer the mixture for 15 minutes.
- Add cooked and drained spaghetti to the sauce and mix well.
- Pour half of the spaghetti mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Layer Velveeta cheese over the spaghetti in the dish.
- Add the remaining spaghetti mixture on top and sprinkle with Mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 20 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of ricotta or cottage cheese to the spaghetti mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger meat for a lighter option. Fresh herbs can enhance the flavors; use them if available instead of dried herbs. If you prefer a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheese Spaghetti Bake pairs beautifully with a simple side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve alongside Southern Beans to round out the flavors. For an Italian twist, consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, warming at 350°F until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Spaghetti Bake contains roughly 335 calories, with 22g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (67% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value), and iron (53% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1885mg per serving (82% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the Cheese Spaghetti Bake a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time, as it will be cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of Mozzarella cheese?
If you don't have Mozzarella, you can substitute it with Cheddar for a sharper flavor, or use a blend of Italian cheeses for a more complex taste. Just ensure the cheese melts well to achieve that delicious, gooey texture.
Can I freeze the Cheese Spaghetti Bake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed.
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).