Hamburger And Spaghetti
A hearty baked spaghetti and hamburger casserole layered with melted American and Parmesan cheeses, perfect for comforting family dinners with rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Drain excess fat from the meat mixture.
- Break the dry spaghetti into pieces, cook in boiling water until tender, then drain.
- Mix the cooked spaghetti, browned hamburger, and chopped tomatoes together.
- Transfer the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Top with a layer of American cheese slices and a layer of Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic or Italian herbs while browning the hamburger. If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute ground turkey for the hamburger. You can also use whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option. To enhance the texture, try mixing in sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms into the meat mixture before combining with the spaghetti.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty on its own but can be served with a side salad, such as Jerry'S Spinach Salad, for a refreshing contrast. Additionally, garlic bread or a light vegetable sauté pairs well to complement the flavors. For a complete meal, offer a dessert like a fruit salad or brownies to round out the dining experience.
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 maintain moisture, heating in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger And Spaghetti contains roughly 713 calories, with 31g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (61% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value), and iron (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1066mg per serving (46% 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 the spaghetti with other pasta shapes such as penne or fusilli. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times according to the type of pasta you choose, ensuring it's cooked until al dente before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through completely.
What can I do if I don't have American cheese?
If American cheese isn't available, feel free to use shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese as a substitute. Both will melt nicely and add a delicious flavor. For a gourmet touch, try using a blend of Italian cheeses like provolone and fontina.
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).