Spaghetti A La Zike
A hearty baked spaghetti casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, fresh tomatoes, melted cheese, and flavorful vegetables, perfect for family dinners and comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti in boiling water for 12 minutes, then drain.
- Cut up the large can of tomatoes or blend them until smooth.
- Add the tomatoes to the cooked spaghetti and simmer for 15 minutes.
- In a separate pan, cook ground beef with chopped onion and bell pepper until beef is browned.
- Add the cooked beef mixture to the spaghetti and tomato sauce, then mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a 2 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Cover with slices of cheese.
- Let stand several hours, then bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing minced garlic along with the onion and bell pepper. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or use plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian twist. If you prefer a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. This recipe also works well with penne or rigatoni instead of spaghetti.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Tomato And Basil Linguine for a delightful Italian dinner spread. For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving. A light red wine, such as Chianti, complements the rich flavors well.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover to retain moisture, heating in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti A La Zike contains roughly 583 calories, with 15g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), protein (30% of the Daily Value), and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1178mg per serving (51% 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 fresh tomatoes instead of canned for this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! About 2-3 pounds of ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped, will work well. Simmer them longer to break down and achieve a sauce-like consistency. Adjust seasonings to taste as fresh tomatoes can vary in acidity.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked casserole for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s tightly covered. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This makes it perfect for meal prep or last-minute dinners.
What types of cheese work best for topping?
Mozzarella cheese is a classic choice for its melting qualities, but feel free to mix in cheddar or provolone for additional flavor. For a gourmet touch, consider adding a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese. Just remember to adjust quantities based on cheese strength.
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).