Spaghetti And Beef Bake
A hearty baked spaghetti dish with beef, cheese, and a flavorful tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti according to package directions; drain.
- Brown the ground beef with chopped onion in a skillet, stirring frequently; drain excess fat.
- Reserve 1 cup of shredded cheese for topping.
- Combine the remaining cheese, hot spaghetti, hot ground beef mixture, undrained tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, Tabasco sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl; mix until cheese is melted.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.
- Top with the reserved shredded cheese and dot with margarine.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes or until brown and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for beef, and use whole wheat spaghetti. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition. If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of cream cheese to the mixture. This dish is great for meal prep and can be frozen for future meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine for adults. For a comforting twist, try it alongside American recipes that feature similar flavors, like Beef Dressing Casserole or Crusty Beef And Cheese Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until hot, ensuring even heating to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti And Beef Bake contains roughly 307 calories, with 10g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2383mg per serving (104% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove the cover and follow the baking instructions, adding a few extra minutes if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for Colby cheese?
If you can’t find Colby cheese, you can use cheddar cheese or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a similar flavor profile. Each option will melt well and maintain the creamy texture of the dish.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or cooked lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of meat-based sauces, and ensure your cheese is vegetarian-friendly for a delicious vegetarian version of this bake.
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).