Spaghetti-Hamburger Casserole
A hearty casserole combining spaghetti, seasoned hamburger, and creamy soups, topped with cheese. Perfect for family dinners and comforting, flavorful meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry hamburger, onion, and green peppers; drain.
- Add tomato soup, cream of mushroom soup, and water.
- Add garlic powder, and lightly salt and pepper.
- Place drained spaghetti in a lightly greased pan.
- Add the cooked ingredients to the spaghetti.
- Cover with Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding Italian seasoning or using ground turkey instead of hamburger. You can also mix in vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition. If you prefer a creamier texture, try using a blend of cream cheese and sour cream instead of cream of mushroom soup. Make sure to cook the spaghetti al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad, like Grammie'S Dig Deep Salad, for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with garlic bread or a simple green vegetable for added color and nutrition. For a delightful finish, consider serving a light dessert, such as fruit salad or a slice of cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil, heating at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to keep moisture in.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti-Hamburger Casserole contains roughly 962 calories, with 49g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (98% of the Daily Value), calcium (73% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1038mg per serving (45% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
What can I substitute for the tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup, you can use a jar of marinara sauce or a can of crushed tomatoes mixed with a little sugar and Italian seasoning to achieve a similar flavor. This substitution can also enhance the dish's overall taste.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground hamburger with a plant-based meat alternative or use lentils for protein. Additionally, consider adding more vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to enhance the flavor and texture while keeping it hearty.
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).