Spaghetti Casserole
Spaghetti casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of ground beef, sautéed vegetables, and savory tomato sauce, all layered with pasta. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike with its cheesy, satisfying goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger, onion, and green pepper in a skillet and drain.
- Mix all the ingredients together in a 9 x 13-inch dish.
- Sprinkle the top with grated Cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 30 minutes at 350°.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or Italian seasoning to the meat mixture. You can substitute ground turkey for the hamburger for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms or lentils. Adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini can enhance the nutritional value, similar to what you might find in a Skillet Barbecue Beans recipe.
Serving Suggestions
This Spaghetti Casserole is great on its own but pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You might also consider serving it with some roasted vegetables or a light soup for a comforting dinner. For those who enjoy American recipes, this dish is a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, for about 2-3 minutes on high.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Casserole contains roughly 192 calories, with 6g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (121% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 a day in advance. Just assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Can I freeze Spaghetti Casserole?
Absolutely! After baking, allow the casserole to cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce on hand, you can use crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes with added herbs for flavor. Alternatively, you can blend fresh tomatoes with some seasoning for a homemade sauce. This can give a fresher taste similar to what you might find in a Ham And Rice Casserole.
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).