Oven Spaghetti
Oven Spaghetti offers a hearty, flavorful baked pasta dish with savory meat, vegetables, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger and chopped onions in a skillet.
- Add green peppers to the browned meat and onions.
- Pour off excess fat once the meat is cooked.
- Combine the cooked meat mixture with tomatoes, mushrooms, water, salt, sugar, chili powder, and uncooked spaghetti in a baking dish.
- Cover and bake at 375°F for 45 minutes.
- Remove from oven, add cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes until cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quick variation, substitute ground turkey for the hamburger for a lighter option. If you don't have green peppers, try using diced zucchini or bell peppers. Adding Italian seasoning can enhance the flavor profile. To reduce cooking time, pre-cook the spaghetti until al dente before mixing it with the sauce. This dish is an excellent way to use up leftover vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the oven spaghetti hot, garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad, such as Spinach Salad And Warm Dressing, and crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside roasted vegetables or a light soup for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, which helps retain the texture of the pasta and prevent it from becoming mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Spaghetti contains roughly 211 calories, with 7g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (153% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (43% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 784mg per serving (34% 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 a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use different types of pasta, such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time slightly based on the pasta shape. Ensure the pasta cooks evenly with the sauce to achieve the best texture.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the hamburger with a plant-based meat substitute or increase the amount of vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach. This will create a delicious vegetarian version without sacrificing flavor.
Can I freeze oven spaghetti?
Yes, oven spaghetti freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or microwave.
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).