Spaghetti For Twenty
A hearty Italian-style baked spaghetti dish layered with meat sauce, vegetables, and cheese, perfect for family dinners or gatherings that love bold flavors and comfort food.
Ingredients
- 1.5 to 2 lb. ground beef ⓘ
- 6 medium onions ⓘ
- 0.25 lb. margarine ⓘ
- 1 bunch carrots, grated ⓘ
- 2 sweet green peppers, chopped ⓘ
- 1 bunch parsley, chopped ⓘ
- 2 or 3 cloves garlic, chopped ⓘ
- 2 cups canned tomatoes ⓘ
- 2 (10.5 oz.) cans tomato soup ⓘ
- 1 large can mushrooms ⓘ
- 1.25 lb. spaghetti ⓘ
- 1 lb. sharp cheese, grated ⓘ
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and onions in margarine.
- Add grated carrots, chopped green peppers, chopped parsley, and chopped garlic to the meat mixture.
- Stir in canned tomatoes and tomato soup, rinsing cans with a little water.
- Simmer the sauce for 1 hour.
- Add mushrooms and cook for an additional 20 minutes.
- Cook spaghetti in boiling, salted water until tender, about 20 minutes.
- Rinse the cooked spaghetti in cold water.
- Prepare 3 large casseroles. In each, layer spaghetti, sauce, and grated cheese. Repeat the layering to make two layers.
- Set aside casseroles for baking later if desired.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider using a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage. You can substitute margarine with olive oil for a healthier fat option. Fresh tomatoes can replace canned ones, but adjust cooking time accordingly. Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella for a milder flavor. Also, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can enhance the sauce's richness, reminiscent of Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This spaghetti dish is perfect for large gatherings and pairs well with a simple green salad and garlic bread. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Italian Delight Hot Dish for a varied meal. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top before serving can elevate the flavors. You can also serve it with a light red wine for a complete dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Microwaving is also an option; just cover the dish to retain moisture and heat in intervals, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti For Twenty contains roughly 466 calories, with 15g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (97% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 487mg per serving (21% 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 prepare this spaghetti dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and assemble the casseroles a day ahead. Just cover tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What type of cheese is best for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar cheese is recommended for its strong flavor that complements the sauce. However, you can also use mozzarella for a creamier texture or a blend of both for a more complex taste. Just ensure it’s grated for even melting.
Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute the spaghetti with gluten-free pasta varieties, which are widely available. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so check for tenderness according to package instructions while preparing your dish.
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).