Lela'S Spaghetti Casserole
Lela's Spaghetti Casserole is a hearty, cheesy baked pasta dish featuring ground beef, spaghetti, Colby cheese, and savory seasonings. Topped with crispy bacon and baked to perfection, it offers a rich flavor profile ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, combining comfort and bold flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the spaghetti noodles according to package instructions.
- Place the cooked spaghetti in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Add the cooked ground beef and diced Colby cheese to the spaghetti.
- Sprinkle with minced onion, crushed oregano leaves, and Italian seasoning.
- Pour the can of tomato sauce over the mixture and sprinkle with bacon bits.
- Place the bacon strips over the top of the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. If you prefer a lighter version, swap out half the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You can also substitute the Colby cheese with mozzarella or cheddar for a different taste. Remember to salt the pasta water for better flavor absorption.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Lela's Spaghetti Casserole hot from the oven, garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside Beef And Macaroni for a comforting dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lela'S Spaghetti Casserole contains roughly 658 calories, with 17g protein, 141g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (181% of the Daily Value), and calcium (143% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 51g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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. Assemble it in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for the bacon strips?
If you prefer not to use bacon strips, you can omit them entirely or replace them with turkey bacon for a healthier option. Alternatively, crumbled sausage or diced ham can also add a delicious flavor to the casserole.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can enhance the nutrition of the casserole by adding sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Just make sure to cook them first to remove excess moisture before mixing them into 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).