Spaghetti-Cheese Loaf
A hearty baked spaghetti and cheese loaf with savory ground beef, melted American cheese, and flavorful seasonings, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef with spaghetti in a mixing bowl.
- Add egg, salt, oregano, and garlic powder; stir until well blended.
- Press half of the mixture into the bottom of an 8-inch baking dish.
- Top with sliced onion and American cheese slices.
- Add the remaining meat mixture on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for one hour or until browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or some diced bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the beef. Make sure to drain excess liquid from the spaghetti to prevent the loaf from becoming too soggy. This dish pairs well with a simple salad or garlic bread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Spaghetti-Cheese Loaf with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp garden salad for a balanced meal. A dollop of marinara sauce on top can enhance the flavors even more. This dish is great for dinner parties or family gatherings, as it can easily be doubled for larger servings. It also pairs beautifully with Jon Ben Getty.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti-Cheese Loaf contains roughly 593 calories, with 17g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (44% of the Daily Value), iron (41% of the Daily Value), and protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2356mg per serving (102% 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 cheese?
Absolutely! While American cheese provides a creamy texture, you can substitute it with mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the cheese melts well and complements the spaghetti and beef mixture.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with cooked lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tempeh or tofu. You can also add chopped vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini to enhance the texture and flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Spaghetti-Cheese Loaf a day in advance. Assemble the dish without baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
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).