Layered Spaghetti Casserole
A hearty layered spaghetti casserole combining seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and Parmesan cheese, perfect for family dinners and comfort food enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cook ground beef in a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until browned; drain excess fat.
- Stir in spaghetti sauce with the cooked beef.
- Remove from heat.
- Mix cooked spaghetti, beaten eggs, and grated Parmesan cheese in a bowl.
- Spread the spaghetti mixture evenly in an ungreased rectangular baking dish (13 x 9 x 2 inches).
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider seasoning the ground beef with garlic powder or Italian herbs while cooking. If you want a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for beef. You can also use whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option, or try using zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative. This recipe is reminiscent of a No Bake Lasagna, making it a comforting favorite.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the layered spaghetti casserole with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A side of steamed vegetables can also complement the dish nicely. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside a dish of Italian Meat Sauce For Spaghetti for those who like extra sauce. A sprinkle of extra parsley on top adds a lovely presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire dish with foil and warm it in a preheated 350°F oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. This ensures the pasta stays moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Layered Spaghetti Casserole contains roughly 728 calories, with 38g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (75% of the Daily Value), iron (70% of the Daily Value), and calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 752mg per serving (33% 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 a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Just add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.
Can I freeze the spaghetti casserole?
Absolutely! After assembling, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed. This makes it a great option for meal prep or future dinners.
What can I substitute for Ricotta cheese?
If you don't have Ricotta cheese, you can use cottage cheese blended until smooth as a substitute. Cream cheese mixed with a bit of milk can also work well. Both options will maintain the creamy texture and flavor of the 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).