Delicious Spaghetti Casserole Recipe – Easy Family Meal
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food — layers of tender spaghetti, hearty meat sauce, and gooey melted cheese baked to golden perfection. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, meal prepping, or just enjoying a cozy family dinner. Easy to make and full of flavor, this baked spaghetti is guaranteed to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
- 1 large egg
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook Spaghetti: Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and onion, cooking until beef is browned and onion is soft (about 5-7 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese and egg. Mix well.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread half of the cooked spaghetti in the baking dish. Top with half of the meat sauce, followed by dollops of the ricotta mixture. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat layers, finishing with cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use ground turkey or sausage for a flavor twist.
- Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra nutrition.
- This casserole freezes well — freeze before baking or freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.
- Serve with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Calories: ~460 kcal
- Fat: ~22g
- Carbohydrates: ~40g
- Protein: ~28g
Spaghetti casserole is a tasty and easy meal for families. You can make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients. It’s also a smart way to save time and money. Using leftover ingredients, it helps reduce waste. This makes it a great choice for family dinners. Chicken spaghetti casserole is another tasty option. It adds protein and makes the meal more filling. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish everyone will enjoy.
Spaghetti casserole is special because it’s very flexible. You can add your favorite veggies, meats, and cheeses. This makes every meal unique and delicious. It’s also a smart way to use leftovers and cut down on waste. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time. Making casseroles for family meals has many benefits. They save time and money because you can make a big batch. This batch can be reheated for several meals.
Table of Contents
Essential Ingredients for Your Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
To make a tasty spaghetti casserole, you need some key ingredients. These include spaghetti, ground beef, tomato sauce, and shredded mozzarella cheese. You can find these in most online recipe platforms that share spaghetti casserole recipes.
The quality of your ingredients matters a lot. For a top-notch spaghetti casserole, use premium ground beef and homemade tomato sauce. Here are the must-haves:
- Spaghetti
- Ground beef
- Tomato sauce
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
You can tweak these ingredients to your liking. Try different cheeses or spices to make your casserole special. Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best taste.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make a tasty chicken spaghetti casserole recipe or a classic spaghetti casserole recipe, you’ll need some key tools. These tools will help you prepare and cook your casserole well.
You’ll need a large, deep dish for baking. Also, a big pot for boiling spaghetti, a colander for draining, and a chef’s knife for chopping veggies.
Required Baking Dishes
A 9×13 inch baking dish is perfect for a spaghetti casserole recipe. This size ensures even cooking and makes serving easy.
Optional Kitchen Gadgets
Optional gadgets like a stand mixer for sauce mixing and a food processor for veggie chopping can be helpful.
Preparation Tools
You’ll also need tools for prep, like a cutting board, a chef’s knife, and a spoon for mixing.
With these tools and equipment, you’re ready to make a delicious spaghetti casserole recipe or chicken spaghetti casserole recipe. Your family will love it.
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| Baking Dish | 9×13 inch dish for baking the casserole |
| Large Pot | For boiling spaghetti |
| Colander | For draining spaghetti |
| Chef’s Knife | For chopping vegetables |
Step-by-Step Classic Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
To make a tasty spaghetti casserole, just follow a few easy steps. First, cook the spaghetti as the package says. While it cooks, start making the sauce. You can make your own or use one from the store.
For a classic recipe, mix cooked spaghetti, sauce, and shredded cheese.
Here’s how to put the casserole together:
- Cook the spaghetti and set it aside
- Prepare the sauce and add some shredded cheese
- Combine the cooked spaghetti and sauce
- Add some extra cheese on top
You can also add cooked chicken or veggies to make it a chicken spaghetti casserole.
There are many ways to make spaghetti casserole your own. Try different cheeses like parmesan or mozzarella. Or use ground beef or sausage instead of traditional meat.
By following these steps, you can make a delicious spaghetti casserole. It’s great for family dinners or special events. Feel free to try new ingredients and flavors to make it your own.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 1 pound |
| Sauce | 2 cups |
| Shredded cheese | 1 cup |
Creating the Perfect Sauce Base
The sauce base is key in a tasty spaghetti casserole. You can make your own or buy it. For a top-notch casserole, pick a sauce that goes well with the other ingredients. Use fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs for a rich flavor.
Making your own sauce lets you pick the ingredients and seasonings. This way, your casserole will be just right. Store-bought sauces are quick but might not be as customizable. Always taste and adjust the seasoning to get the flavor just right.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought Options
When choosing between homemade and store-bought sauces, consider these points:
- Time: Homemade sauces take more time, but store-bought are quicker.
- Flavor: Homemade sauces can match your taste, while store-bought have a standard flavor.
- Ingredients: Homemade sauces let you control what goes in, but store-bought might have additives.
Seasoning Tips for Maximum Flavor
Here are some tips to enhance your sauce’s flavor:
- Choose high-quality ingredients like fresh herbs and spices.
- Try different seasoning mixes to find what you like.
- Keep tasting and adjusting the seasoning with salt, pepper, or herbs.
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole Variation
There are many spaghetti casserole recipes to try. The million dollar spaghetti casserole is a favorite. It’s made with ground beef, sausage, and bacon. This mix of meats and cheeses makes it rich and flavorful.
To make this version, you’ll need to add ground beef, sausage, and bacon to your chicken spaghetti casserole recipe. These ingredients add a hearty, savory taste. You can also add your favorite spices and herbs to make it your own.
Here are some tips for making the million dollar spaghetti casserole:
- Choose high-quality ingredients like lean ground beef and fresh sausage for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pasta. It should stay firm and tasty.
- Use lots of cheese, like cheddar and parmesan, for a creamy, rich taste.
By following these tips and using your favorite spaghetti casserole recipes, you can make a delicious meal. The million dollar spaghetti casserole is sure to please everyone. So, why not give it a try?
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Sausage | 1 pound |
| Bacon | 6 slices |
| Cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup |
How to Make Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
To make a tasty chicken spaghetti casserole, start by picking the right chicken. You can choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Think about the flavor and texture you want in your dish.
A spaghetti casserole recipe often uses ground beef. But, using chicken gives it a special twist. You’ll need diced chicken, chicken broth, and spices. These add great flavor to your casserole.
Customizing Your Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
You can make your chicken spaghetti casserole your own. Add veggies like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for more flavor and nutrition. Try different spices and seasonings to give it a unique taste.
Cooking Time Adjustments
Cooking time changes based on chicken size and type. Adjust it so your chicken is fully cooked and your casserole is perfect. With these tips, you’ll make a delicious chicken spaghetti casserole everyone will enjoy.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
After making a delicious spaghetti casserole, you’ll need to store it right. This keeps it fresh and flavorful. You can keep your casserole in the fridge for up to three days. Or, freeze it for up to two months.
To reheat your chicken spaghetti casserole recipe, use the oven or microwave. Here are some tips:
- Reheat the casserole to 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Use a food thermometer, especially for frozen casseroles.
- Avoid overheating to keep the casserole moist.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your spaghetti casserole recipes longer. Always check for spoilage before eating. If it smells bad, has mold, or feels slimy, throw it away.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Casserole
To make a tasty spaghetti casserole, follow some expert tips. Use the right ingredients and cook at the right temperature. Adding cooked chicken makes chicken spaghetti casserole recipes even better.
Assembling the casserole is key. Layer the ingredients correctly and cover with foil while baking. You can also prep it ahead and refrigerate or freeze for later.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta
- Using too much sauce
- Not covering the casserole with foil during baking
By following these tips, you’ll make a casserole your family will adore. Try different ingredients and variations, like chicken spaghetti casserole, for a unique dish.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To prep a casserole ahead, just assemble it and refrigerate or freeze. This saves time during the week and is great for holidays or special events.
Conclusion: Enjoying Your Homemade Spaghetti Casserole
Now that you’ve made a delicious spaghetti casserole, it’s time to enjoy it. Serve it with a fresh salad or warm garlic bread. This will make your meal complete and satisfying for your family.
Try using ground chicken or turkey for a twist on the classic recipe. This way, you can make the dish your own and explore new flavors. It’s a fun way to keep the dish exciting and fresh.
Relax and enjoy every bite of your homemade spaghetti casserole. It’s a chance to share a delicious meal with your loved ones. Bon appétit!