Chili Spaghetti Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole combining spicy chili with pasta and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners and chili lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and spray a 13 x 9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions, then drain and place in the prepared dish.
- In a skillet, cook ground turkey and chopped onion until turkey is browned and onion is softened.
- Stir in chili starter, Italian tomatoes, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer the mixture for 10 minutes to blend flavors.
- Pour the chili mixture over the cooked spaghetti in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded low-fat Cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and dollop with fat-free sour cream before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground beef or chicken instead of turkey. If you prefer a spicier kick, add jalapeños or substitute the chili starter with a spicy version. You can also replace the low-fat Cheddar with mozzarella for a different taste. To save time, prep your ingredients ahead, or try using leftover spaghetti from another meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili spaghetti casserole with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a fun twist, pair it with Jan'S Strawberry Sour Cream Dessert for a deliciously sweet finish. You can also top each serving with additional sour cream, chives, or avocado for added creaminess and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but be sure to cover them to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Spaghetti Casserole contains roughly 464 calories, with 15g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (43% of the Daily Value), iron (32% of the Daily Value), and protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 773mg per serving (34% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you're ready to bake, remove the cover and cook it according to the recipe, adding a few extra minutes if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Is it possible to freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! To freeze, prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, or bake from frozen by extending the baking time.
What can I use instead of spaghetti?
If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative, try using gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles for a lighter version. Other options include penne or fusilli pasta, which will hold the sauce well. Experimenting with different pasta shapes can also add a fun twist to this dish.
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).