Spaghetti And Beef Casserole
A hearty, cheesy baked spaghetti casserole combining tender pasta, savory ground beef, flavorful sauce, and melted cheeses, perfect for family dinners and comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cooked and drained spaghetti, cooked and drained ground beef, and spaghetti sauce together in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13 inch pyrex dish.
- Sprinkle grated cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake at 350°F until the cheese melts and is bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions and garlic to the beef mixture. If you're looking to lighten the dish, substitute ground turkey for the beef. You can also use a homemade tomato sauce instead of jarred sauce for a fresh taste. To enhance the cheese flavor, mix in some grated Parmesan along with the cheddar and mozzarella.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a light soup to balance the richness. For a fun twist, serve with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti And Beef Casserole contains roughly 678 calories, with 44g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (89% of the Daily Value), calcium (83% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (48% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1116mg per serving (49% 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 prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it covered in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for the cheeses in this recipe?
If you're looking for alternatives, you can use any cheese that melts well, such as Monterey Jack or Gouda. For a lighter option, reduced-fat cheese can be used, but keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly. Mixing in some cream cheese can also create a creamy layer.
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).