New Orleans Spaghetti
A hearty New Orleans-style spaghetti dish featuring savory ground beef, creamy cheese, mushrooms, and rich tomato flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry onions and ground beef in butter until browned.
- Add both cans of soup and continue cooking, stirring frequently.
- Thin with tomato juice if desired.
- Add mushrooms and cubed Velveeta cheese, then cook and stir until cheese melts.
- Serve over cooked spaghetti.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of milk or heavy cream along with the Velveeta cheese. If you're looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef. You can also substitute the Velveeta with a combination of cheddar and cream cheese for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine. For a more casual option, consider serving it alongside a classic Meatball Special. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover New Orleans Spaghetti can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of tomato juice or water to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through. It can also be reheated in the microwave, covered, in short intervals to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of New Orleans Spaghetti contains roughly 713 calories, with 28g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (73% of the Daily Value), protein (57% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 828mg per serving (36% 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 dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make New Orleans Spaghetti vegetarian, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. You can also add plant-based meat substitutes for a similar texture. The sauces and cheese will still provide great flavor.
How can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?
If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes when cooking the onions and beef. For a milder version, you can skip these additions or use sweet peppers instead. Adjusting the amount of tomato soup can also help balance the flavors.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare New Orleans Spaghetti in advance. Cook the spaghetti and sauce separately, then combine them just before serving. This allows the flavors to meld without overcooking the pasta. Store each component in the refrigerator, and reheat them together for a quick meal.
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).