Lori'S Baked Spaghetti
Lori's Baked Spaghetti offers a hearty, cheesy casserole with flavorful ground beef and rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners and comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil spaghetti as directed on the package.
- Brown ground beef; drain and mix with spaghetti sauce and a little of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Mix the cooked spaghetti with the sauce mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13 inch or 11 x 13 inch pan.
- Top with remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top if desired.
- Bake until cheese is melted and bubbly, about 20-30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding sautéed onions, garlic, or bell peppers to the ground beef. If you're looking for a lighter option, swap out half of the spaghetti for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. You can also use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter protein choice. Feel free to mix in some spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Lori's Baked Spaghetti with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top can enhance the presentation. This dish pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like garlic knots or a side of steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider a side of Betty's 'Love' Soup (Minestrone).
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal. Just add a splash of water to keep it moist while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lori'S Baked Spaghetti contains roughly 303 calories, with 25g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (50% of the Daily Value), calcium (47% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 631mg per serving (27% 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 use whole wheat spaghetti instead of regular spaghetti?
Yes, whole wheat spaghetti is a great alternative and adds more fiber to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as whole wheat pasta may require a few extra minutes to reach the desired tenderness.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make Lori's Baked Spaghetti vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers. You can also add some beans or lentils for additional protein and texture.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the baked spaghetti a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it with foil and bake it the next day. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.
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).