Dot'S Spaghetti Casserole
Dot's Spaghetti Casserole is a hearty, cheesy dish combining tender vermicelli, savory ground beef, and flavorful vegetables, all baked under a rich mushroom and tomato sauce topped with melted cheese and decorated with sliced olives. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it offers comforting, satisfying flavors that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onions in a skillet.
- In another pan, combine the tomato soup with two cans of water.
- Add chopped green pepper and olive juice to the tomato mixture.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for a few minutes.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce.
- Cook and drain the vermicelli or spaghetti.
- Place the cooked pasta in a large container.
- Add the cooked meat, sauce, and grated cheese to the pasta and mix well.
- Divide the mixture evenly into two greased 13x9-inch casseroles.
- Spread a can of undiluted mushroom soup on top of each casserole.
- Decorate with sliced green olives.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey instead of beef and low-fat cheese. You can substitute the vermicelli with whole wheat pasta for added nutrition. Make sure to drain the olives well to avoid excess liquid in the casserole. If you want to add more vegetables, consider adding some spinach or mushrooms when mixing in the sauce, which pairs beautifully with American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole alongside a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It also goes well with a side of steamed vegetables. For a comforting twist, consider serving with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, much like the wonderful Meal-In-A-Dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dot'S Spaghetti Casserole contains roughly 563 calories, with 4g protein, 125g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1340mg per serving (58% 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 in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent drying out. When ready to bake, remove the cover and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for mushroom soup?
If you're looking for a substitute for mushroom soup, you can use a homemade cream sauce made from butter, flour, and milk, mixed with sautéed mushrooms. Alternatively, a can of cream of chicken soup or cream of celery soup can work well too, adding a different flavor while keeping the dish creamy.
Can I freeze the spaghetti casserole?
Yes, this spaghetti casserole freezes well. To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until hot throughout.
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).