Easy Spaghetti Casserole
A hearty, cheesy spaghetti casserole with savory beef, aromatic herbs, and creamy Parmesan, perfect for family dinners and easy weeknight comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in olive oil with chopped onions, diced garlic, Italian seasoning, and bay leaves.
- When done, remove from heat, discard bay leaves, and let cool slightly.
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, then drain.
- Add cooked spaghetti to beef mixture along with evaporated milk, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
- Mix well until combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Top with Velveeta cheese slices.
- Cover with foil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of ricotta cheese or cream cheese to the mixture. If you want to lighten the dish, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative. Feel free to throw in some vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition. This dish can also be made ahead and frozen for future meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Easy Chili 'On Chips' for a hearty family dinner. For a touch of freshness, sprinkle some chopped parsley or basil on top before serving. This dish is also great for potlucks and can be easily doubled for larger gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying out. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Spaghetti Casserole contains roughly 609 calories, with 26g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (104% of the Daily Value), protein (53% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1797mg per serving (78% 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 use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute spaghetti with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rotini. Just ensure you cook the pasta according to the package instructions, adjusting the baking time if necessary based on the pasta used.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with lentils, mushrooms, or a store-bought meat substitute. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of evaporated milk for a lighter option. This way, you maintain the hearty texture while making it vegetarian-friendly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture. You can also use a spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef for an extra kick. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and enjoy a spicy twist on this classic casserole.
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).