Spaghetti And Meatball Casserole
A hearty baked spaghetti and meatball casserole combining flavorful seasoned meat, tender spaghetti, melted cheese, and savory sauce, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle salt, oregano, and pepper over the ground beef.
- Add bread crumbs and evaporated milk; mix well.
- Pat the mixture into a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 30 to 35 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook spaghetti in boiling salted water; drain and rinse.
- Stir the cooked spaghetti together with beaten eggs and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Remove 2 tablespoons of drippings from the cooked meat and add to the spaghetti mixture.
- Drain the remaining fat from the meat.
- Spread the spaghetti mixture evenly over the meat to form a layer; pour spaghetti sauce evenly over the top.
- Continue baking for an additional 15 minutes.
- Arrange American cheese slices on top and sprinkle with chopped stuffed green olives.
- Bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese has melted.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the meat mixture. If you're short on time, you can use pre-made meatballs instead of ground beef. Also, for a creamier texture, substitute half of the evaporated milk with ricotta cheese, which is commonly used in Italian recipes. Make sure to cook the spaghetti al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick. For a comforting twist, pair it with a rich marinara sauce on the side. This dish also pairs beautifully with Traditional Baked Lasagna for a hearty Italian feast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover spaghetti and meatball casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave, covering them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, or reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti And Meatball Casserole contains roughly 742 calories, with 29g protein, 131g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (59% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1719mg per serving (75% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before baking or adjust the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of American cheese?
If you prefer a different cheese, mozzarella or provolone would be excellent substitutes for American cheese. They will melt beautifully and add a different flavor profile to the casserole.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish. Just be sure to reduce the amount of meat slightly to accommodate the added veggies.
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).