Spaghetti Cheese Casserole
Creamy, cheesy spaghetti casserole with savory mushroom soup, olives, and melted cheddar, perfect for a comforting family dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions, microwaving for 9 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, instant minced onion, pepper, and sliced stuffed olives.
- In a greased 1 1/2-quart casserole, layer spaghetti, cheese cubes, and the soup mixture alternately.
- Microwave at High for 9 to 12 minutes, rotating the dish 1/2 turn after 4 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of sour cream or cream cheese to the soup mixture. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile. If you're short on time, pre-cooked spaghetti can be used. Adding cooked ground beef or turkey can also enhance the dish, turning it into a more hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
This Spaghetti Cheese Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a fun twist, serve it alongside Andrew'S Favorite Puppy Dogs(Hush Puppies) for a hearty gathering. A light drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the dish when serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. You can also bake it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti Cheese Casserole contains roughly 205 calories, with 6g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 578mg per serving (25% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance. Assemble it as directed, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before microwaving. Just be sure to add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup or even a homemade white sauce as a substitute. For a vegetarian option, look for a plant-based cream soup or make a simple sauce using vegetable broth and a roux.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, Spaghetti Cheese Casserole can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the microwave or oven.
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).