Wiggles
A hearty casserole combining ground beef, bacon, vegetables, and cheese, baked to perfection. Comforting and flavorful, ideal for family dinners or hearty gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon in a skillet until crisp. Remove and set aside.
- In the bacon fat, fry the hamburger until browned.
- Transfer the cooked beef and bacon to a roaster.
- Add cooked vegetables and spaghetti to the roaster and mix well.
- Arrange bacon strips on top, then layer sliced Velveeta cheese over the mixture.
- Pour tomato paste over the cheese layer.
- Bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1.5 to 2 hours until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic or your favorite herbs when frying the hamburger. You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter option or use a mix of vegetables based on what's in your fridge. If you prefer a bit crunch, try using fresh grated cheese instead of Velveeta. Be mindful of the baking time; check for doneness at the 1.5-hour mark.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs well with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up the flavors. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a light soup like Everything Chowder. Garnish with fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place in a covered baking dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes. This dish also freezes well for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wiggles contains roughly 2369 calories, with 58g protein, 350g carbohydrates, and 88g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (196% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (128% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2021mg per serving (88% 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 different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While Velveeta provides a creamy texture, you can experiment with cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a combination for added flavor. Just be sure to adjust the melting time as different cheeses have different melting properties.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, replace the hamburger with a plant-based meat substitute or lentils. You can also increase the amount of vegetables and add beans for protein. Use a vegetarian cheese option to maintain the creamy texture.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding spices like paprika, cumin, or Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor profile. A splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce can also provide a nice kick. Don't hesitate to get creative with your favorite spices!
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).