Spaghetti Casserole(8 Servings)
A hearty spaghetti casserole combining savory ground beef, flavorful tomato sauce, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking a filling, easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef or sausage in a large pan.
- Add all remaining ingredients, except spaghetti and cheese, to the pan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then break the spaghetti into the sauce.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Remove from heat.
- Transfer to a serving bowl and top with shredded Cheddar cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms when browning the meat. If you're looking for a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef or sausage. Using whole wheat spaghetti can add fiber and nutrients. Make sure to stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking, and taste the sauce before serving to adjust seasoning as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spaghetti casserole with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkling of freshly chopped parsley on top adds a nice touch. This dish pairs beautifully with Jane Mueck'S 'Johnny Mazetti Casserole' for a comforting dinner spread that everyone will enjoy. For a bit of heat, consider serving with a side of spicy roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover spaghetti casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to keep the pasta moist and cover the dish to prevent it from drying out. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Casserole(8 Servings) contains roughly 262 calories, with 10g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (54% of the Daily Value), iron (50% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 909mg 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 use a different type of pasta for this casserole?
Yes, you can use other types of pasta, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary. Smaller shapes like penne or rotini are great alternatives, but they may require slight adjustments in water quantity and cooking time. Just ensure the pasta is fully cooked and well incorporated into the sauce.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of the spaghetti casserole, simply replace the ground beef or sausage with a plant-based meat substitute or omit it entirely. You can also increase the amount of vegetables, such as zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers, to add more bulk and flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of water for additional taste.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover it tightly and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven, and then follow the baking instructions. This makes it perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
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).