Linda'S Spaghetti Casserole
A hearty and cheesy spaghetti casserole combining ground beef, tomato sauce, cottage cheese, and green peppers, perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef until browned; drain excess fat.
- Add tomato sauce, garlic powder, and onion salt to the beef; simmer for a few minutes.
- Mix cooked spaghetti with the beef mixture and spread in a greased casserole dish.
- In a bowl, combine cottage cheese, sour cream, chopped green pepper, and cream cheese.
- Spread the cheese mixture over the spaghetti in the casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey instead of beef. You can also swap out the cottage cheese for ricotta for a creamier texture. Adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutrition. If you want a bit more kick, try incorporating some red pepper flakes. This dish is also delicious when made with whole wheat spaghetti for added fiber.
Serving Suggestions
This spaghetti casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving with a side of steamed vegetables for added color and nutrition. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan on top before serving can elevate the dish even further. For a hearty option, browse more American recipes that feature ground beef.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. When reheating, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Linda'S Spaghetti Casserole contains roughly 364 calories, with 23g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (46% of the Daily Value) and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 537mg per serving (23% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This helps it cook evenly.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you don't have cream cheese on hand, you can use mascarpone or Greek yogurt as substitutes. Both will provide a creamy texture, but Greek yogurt will add a tangy flavor. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to taste for best results.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative like crumbled tempeh or chickpeas. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to enhance the flavor. Adjust the cooking time as necessary to ensure everything is cooked through.
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).