Cheesy Spaghetti Bake
A hearty cheesy spaghetti bake combining savory ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheddar, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Drain off fat.
- Add spaghetti sauce with mushrooms to the skillet.
- Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Break spaghetti noodles in quarters and cook according to package directions.
- Rinse and drain the cooked spaghetti.
- Mix the cooked spaghetti with the sauce.
- Melt margarine in a saucepan.
- Stir in flour and salt.
- Add evaporated milk and water to the saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat until thickened, stirring constantly.
- Add shredded Cheddar cheese and stir until melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese to the sauce mixture. If you want a healthier option, substitute ground turkey for the beef. You can also use whole wheat spaghetti for added fiber. If you prefer a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. This dish is a great way to use up any leftover cheese from other meals.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Spaghetti Bake pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a family-friendly dinner, serve with steamed vegetables for added nutrition. You can also top with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Consider serving with a glass of red wine for an adult twist.
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 prevent drying out. Heat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Spaghetti Bake contains roughly 991 calories, with 17g protein, 151g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (50% of the Daily Value), protein (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1869mg per serving (81% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Cheesy Spaghetti Bake ahead of time. Assemble the dish without baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of Prego spaghetti sauce?
If you don't have Prego spaghetti sauce, you can use any marinara or pasta sauce of your choice. Homemade sauce is also a great option if you prefer to control the ingredients. Just ensure it has a similar consistency and flavor profile to maintain the dish's overall taste.
Can I freeze the Cheesy Spaghetti Bake?
Yes, this dish freezes well. To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until heated through, or you can bake from frozen, increasing the cooking time.
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).