Spaghetti Bake(Casserole)
A hearty baked spaghetti casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, melted Cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses, perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti noodles or wide egg noodles until tender, then drain.
- Mix spaghetti sauce with cooked and drained ground beef.
- Layer half of the spaghetti mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish and sprinkle with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Top with the remaining spaghetti mixture and sprinkle a heavy layer of grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover the casserole and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 30 to 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a container of ricotta cheese to the layers. You can also swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you're short on time, use a store-bought spaghetti sauce or even leftovers from a previous meal. This dish can be customized with veggies like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spaghetti bake with a side salad for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread also complements this dish well, enhancing the Italian flavors. For a heartier meal, pair it with a bowl of Hodgepodge Soup. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top before serving for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the spaghetti bake cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through. This makes for an easy lunch or dinner option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Bake(Casserole) contains roughly 520 calories, with 32g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (71% of the Daily Value), protein (64% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 914mg per serving (40% 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 assemble the spaghetti bake a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge to ensure it's heated through.
What type of noodles work best for this recipe?
While traditional spaghetti noodles are common, wide egg noodles are also a great choice for a heartier texture. Both types will hold up well in the casserole, so feel free to use whichever you prefer or have on hand.
Can I freeze the spaghetti bake?
Absolutely! After baking, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
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).