Standby Casserole
A comforting casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and fresh scallions, perfect for a hearty family dinner or casual gathering with a flavor-packed tomato base.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown the ground beef in butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Pour off the grease from the beef.
- Stir in crushed garlic, salt, pepper, and tomato sauce.
- Cover and simmer on low for 20 minutes.
- Cook spaghetti squash until tender and drain.
- Mix cooked spaghetti squash with cream cheese and sour cream.
- Spread the squash mixture in a casserole dish.
- Top with the beef mixture and sliced scallions.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream. If you're short on time, pre-cooked ground beef can be used to speed up the preparation. Add some Italian seasoning to the tomato sauce for extra flavor. This dish pairs well with a light salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole can be served as a hearty main dish and pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or crusty rolls. It's perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, offering a comforting option that everyone will enjoy.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of water if the squash mixture seems dry. This casserole also freezes well for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Standby Casserole contains roughly 894 calories, with 17g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1969mg per serving (86% 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 another type of meat in this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter version. Just adjust cooking times as needed and season to taste.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just bake it when you're ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of spaghetti squash?
If you don't have spaghetti squash, you can use cooked pasta or zucchini noodles as alternatives. Simply adjust the cooking time based on the substitute you choose, ensuring it’s cooked to your liking before mixing with the cream cheese and sour cream.
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).