Lisa'S Spaghetti Casserole
A hearty and cheesy spaghetti casserole layered with seasoned hamburger, colorful bell peppers, mushrooms, and a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the angel hair pasta as directed on the package.
- Brown the hamburger in a skillet over medium heat.
- Drain off excess fat from the cooked hamburger.
- Lay the cooked pasta in the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Layer the browned hamburger with chopped bell pepper, onion, and mushroom on top of the pasta.
- Sprinkle a mixture of parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese over the layered ingredients.
- Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 to 45 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding some Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes to the hamburger while browning for extra flavor. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger if you prefer a leaner option. If you don't have angel hair pasta, any pasta shape will work, but adjust cooking times accordingly. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach.
Serving Suggestions
This spaghetti casserole is hearty and satisfying on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a fresh touch, consider pairing it with a light vinaigrette like in Sunday Chicken Salad. A simple dessert like fruit salad would round out the meal beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover spaghetti casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lisa'S Spaghetti Casserole contains roughly 485 calories, with 28g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (56% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (53% of the Daily Value), and calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 878mg per serving (38% 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 in advance. Assemble the layers and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of spaghetti sauce?
If you don't have spaghetti sauce, you can substitute it with marinara or pizza sauce. For a homemade option, blend canned tomatoes with garlic, onion, and spices for a quick sauce. Alternatively, consider using Alfredo sauce for a creamy variation, though it will change the flavor profile significantly.
Can I freeze the spaghetti casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. To freeze, allow it to cool completely after baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until thoroughly warmed.
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).