Hamburger-Spaghetti Casserole
A hearty casserole combining savory hamburger, creamy mushroom soup, melted Velveeta cheese, and tender spaghetti, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger meat in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Layer the cooked hamburger meat, cooked spaghetti, butter, and Velveeta cheese in a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
- Repeat the layering process with remaining ingredients.
- In a saucepan, heat the cream of mushroom soup and milk together until smooth.
- Pour the mushroom soup mixture evenly over the layered casserole.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 30 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a little extra milk or substituting half of the Velveeta with cream cheese. You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of hamburger meat for a lighter option. If you prefer whole grain, swap the thin spaghetti for whole wheat spaghetti. This dish can also be adapted with different cheeses like cheddar for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a side salad, such as an Untossed Tossed Salad, to add freshness to the meal. For a heartier option, pair it with garlic bread or steamed vegetables. This dish is great for potlucks and family gatherings, offering a pleasing blend of flavors that everyone will enjoy.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger-Spaghetti Casserole contains roughly 777 calories, with 28g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (55% of the Daily Value), iron (37% of the Daily Value), and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 576mg per serving (25% 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 prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you want to avoid canned soup, you can make a homemade version by cooking mushrooms, garlic, and onions in butter, then adding flour and milk to create a creamy sauce. This will give you a fresher flavor and is a great way to customize the dish.
Can I freeze the Hamburger-Spaghetti Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until hot.
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).