The Best Spaghetti Casserole

Savor the Ultimate Comfort Dish – The Best Spaghetti Casserole That Will Wow Your Taste Buds

Step into the realm of culinary bliss with our recipe for The Best Spaghetti Casserole. This dish elevates the classic flavors of spaghetti to a new level of comfort and convenience. Imagine layers of perfectly cooked pasta, savory ground beef, rich meatless spaghetti sauce, and a creamy blend of cheeses all baked to golden perfection. Join us as we guide you through the steps to create this crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you crave a hearty and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

Meat:

  • 2 lbs Ground beef

Produce:

  • 2 tsp Garlic
  • 1/4 cup Onion

Condiments:

  • 2 (26.5 ounce) cans Meatless spaghetti sauce

Pasta & Grains:

  • 1 (16 ounce) package Spaghetti

Baking & Spices:

  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper, ground
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Oils & Vinegars:

  • Cooking spray
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil

Dairy:

  • 1 (8 ounce) package Cream cheese
  • 2 cups Mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
  • 1 (16 ounce) container Fat-free sour cream

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti and Preheat the Oven

  1. Cook Spaghetti:
    • Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Preheat Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef and Prepare the Sauce

  1. Brown Ground Beef:
    • In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
  2. Add Aromatics:
    • Add minced garlic and chopped onion to the ground beef, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
  3. Combine with Sauce:
    • Pour the meatless spaghetti sauce into the skillet, stirring to combine. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesy Creamy Mixture

  1. Creamy Cheese Blend:
    • In a separate bowl, mix cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and fat-free sour cream until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Layering:
    • Spread a small amount of the meat sauce in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place a layer of cooked spaghetti on top.
  2. Creamy Cheese Layer:
    • Spread half of the creamy cheese blend over the spaghetti layer.
  3. Repeat:
    • Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous layer of the meat sauce on top.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

  1. Bake:
    • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
  2. Let it Rest:
    • Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Vegetarian Twist: Replace ground beef with plant-based ground meat or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
  • Spice It Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Fresh Herb Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the casserole before serving for a burst of freshness.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

For the Keto Enthusiasts:

  • Substitute spaghetti with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles.

Low-Carb Adjustment:

  • Use a low-carb spaghetti sauce or make your own using tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs.
  • Replace regular cream cheese with a keto-friendly alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q45: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

  • Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic lean alternative.

Q46: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

  • Certainly! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve, adjusting the baking time as needed.

Q47: Can I freeze leftovers?

  • Yes, the casserole freezes well. Ensure it’s tightly wrapped or stored in an airtight container.

Q48: Is there a substitute for fat-free sour cream?

  • You can use Greek yogurt or a lower-fat sour cream as a substitute.

In conclusion, The Best Spaghetti Casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings people together. With layers of flavor, creamy textures, and the comforting familiarity of spaghetti, this dish is a triumph of home-cooked goodness. As you savor each bite, let it transport you to a place of warmth, laughter, and the joy that comes with sharing a delicious meal. Your kitchen has become a stage for creating memories, and The Best Spaghetti Casserole is the star of the show. Here’s to indulging in the ultimate comfort dish that transcends the ordinary and becomes a cherished favorite.