Meat And Spaghetti Casserole
A hearty casserole combining savory ground beef, spaghetti, and creamy mushroom soup, topped with cheese and olives, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook onions, green pepper, and hamburger until brown; drain.
- Add ketchup and 3 tablespoons of juice from green olives; let the mixture cook on low for about 30 minutes.
- Cook spaghetti according to package directions.
- In a 2-quart casserole dish, layer cooked spaghetti and the meat mixture.
- Pour cream of mushroom soup over the meat layer.
- Add another layer of spaghetti and meat mixture.
- Place grated cheese on top.
- Slice green olives and add on top of the cheese.
- Bake in a preheated 400°F oven for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider swapping the hamburger for ground turkey or adding some Italian sausage for extra flavor. You can also substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken if preferred. To enhance the dish, include spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning during the cooking process.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread to complement the hearty flavors. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a refreshing coleslaw. It’s a comforting dish perfect for gatherings, reminiscent of classic American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat And Spaghetti Casserole contains roughly 436 calories, with 16g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value) and protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 958mg per serving (42% 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?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready to serve. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or for busy weeknights.
What can I use instead of green olives?
If you’re not a fan of green olives, you can omit them entirely or substitute with sliced black olives for a milder flavor. Alternatively, capers can add a unique brininess that complements the dish.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated 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).