Roman Holiday Dish
A hearty Roman-inspired baked spaghetti dish layered with seasoned meat, tomatoes, and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners and Italian food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sauté chopped onion in melted Crisco until translucent.
- Add hamburger and seasonings; cook for 5 minutes.
- Place a layer of cooked spaghetti in a baking dish.
- Add the cooked meat mixture over the spaghetti.
- Repeat layering with remaining spaghetti and meat mixture.
- Pour canned tomatoes over the layered spaghetti and meat.
- Sprinkle grated cheese on top.
- Bake, covered, at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Remove cover and continue to bake for an additional 10 minutes to brown the cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, consider substituting Crisco with olive oil or using ground turkey instead of hamburger. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. If you prefer a spicier dish, try incorporating some crushed red pepper flakes. This dish pairs well with Italian recipes that feature rich sauces.
Serving Suggestions
This Roman Holiday Dish is hearty and satisfying on its own, but you can elevate the meal by serving it with a fresh green salad and garlic bread on the side. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley can enhance the flavors. It also pairs beautifully with Spaghetti Red for a delightful Italian-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, for about 2-3 minutes depending on your microwave's power.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Roman Holiday Dish contains roughly 421 calories, with 14g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value) and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 822mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and assemble it up to the baking step. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rigatoni. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time for the pasta according to package instructions, ensuring it is cooked al dente before layering.
What cheese is best for topping?
A blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese works wonderfully for this dish. Mozzarella provides a gooey texture, while Parmesan adds a sharp flavor. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone or fontina for a unique twist!
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).