Pizza Top Spaghetti
A cheesy, hearty pizza-style spaghetti bake with ground beef, melted mozzarella and cheddar, topped with pepperoni—perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger in a skillet until fully cooked.
- Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions; drain well.
- Combine the cooked spaghetti and browned hamburger in a bowl.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the bottom of a baking pan.
- Layer mozzarella cheese over the spaghetti, then add sharp cheddar cheese on top.
- Place pepperoni slices on top of the cheese layer.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the hamburger while browning for extra flavor. If you're short on time, consider using pre-cooked spaghetti or a store-bought sauce. You can also substitute the mozzarella with provolone for a different cheese profile. For a lighter version, use ground turkey instead of hamburger.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a side salad for a balanced meal, or pair it with garlic bread for a comforting dinner. It’s perfect for game day or family gatherings. Consider serving it alongside other American recipes, like Supper Skillet, for a diverse spread that everyone will enjoy.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pizza Top Spaghetti contains roughly 788 calories, with 43g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (87% of the Daily Value), calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 838mg 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 use a different type of meat instead of hamburger?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a leaner option. You could also try Italian sausage for added flavor. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning as necessary, especially if using a flavored sausage.
What can I use instead of pepperoni?
If you prefer a different topping, consider using sliced olives, cooked bacon, or even turkey pepperoni for a healthier choice. You can also skip the meat entirely and load up on vegetables like spinach or zucchini.
How do I know when the cheese is properly melted?
The cheese is properly melted when it appears bubbly and starts to slightly brown at the edges. Make sure to keep an eye on it while baking; if it’s getting too brown too quickly, lower the oven temperature.
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).