Chilighetti
A hearty and flavorful chili spaghetti casserole combining spicy ground beef, tomato juice, and pasta, perfect for comforting family dinners with a touch of heat and richness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and cook until translucent.
- Stir in the broken spaghetti and cook for a few minutes.
- Mix in the beans, chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Add the tomato juice to the mixture and bring to a boil.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also use whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option. This dish is great for using up leftover vegetables, so feel free to toss in bell peppers or zucchini.
Serving Suggestions
Chilighetti is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it with a side salad or garlic bread. For added flavor, top each serving with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. It pairs beautifully with Granddaddy'S Chili for a hearty meal or as part of a comforting American recipes spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chilighetti contains roughly 171 calories, with 10g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (22% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2543mg per serving (111% 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 Chilighetti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Chilighetti ahead of time. Assemble the dish without baking it, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
What can I serve with Chilighetti?
Chilighetti goes well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with cornbread, a simple green salad, or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, pair it with a classic chili or a side of roasted potatoes, enhancing the comfort food experience.
Can I freeze Chilighetti?
Yes, Chilighetti freezes well. 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 in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at 350°F 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).