Tallorini
A hearty baked spaghetti casserole with seasoned ground beef, cheese, tomatoes, and olives, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers craving bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together ground beef, chili powder, diced onion, diced green pepper, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the spaghetti until al dente, then drain.
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the beef mixture and stir to combine.
- Add the chopped black olives and stewed tomatoes to the mixture, mixing well.
- Transfer the mixture to a flat baking dish.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 25 minutes or until the cheese melts and is bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on Tallorini, consider adding some diced jalapeños for extra heat or using ground turkey as a leaner alternative. If you're out of Velveeta, any creamy cheese like Monterey Jack or a blend can work. Don't forget to taste and adjust the seasoning, as salt levels can vary with different brands of ingredients. This dish is similar to classic Beef recipes with a cheesy flair.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Tallorini hot from the oven, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider pairing it with a light red wine or iced tea for refreshing contrast. For added variety, serve with a side of roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Tallorini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, cover it with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. For quicker options, use the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tallorini contains roughly 44 calories, with 2g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 826mg per serving (36% 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 Tallorini ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to a day. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through properly.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you're looking for alternatives to ground beef, ground turkey or chicken are excellent options for a lighter dish. Additionally, for a vegetarian version, try using lentils or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat, which will still provide a hearty texture.
Can I freeze Tallorini?
Yes, Tallorini freezes well! After baking, let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until warmed through.
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).