Spaghetti casserole is the epitome of comfort food, combining the rich flavors of spaghetti with a creamy, cheesy sauce, and a hint of Italian herbs. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve something hearty and satisfying. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will surely become a staple in your meal rotation.
Ingredients
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the Sauce: Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, and dried basil. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix the Creamy Layer: In a medium bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Mix until well blended.
- Assemble the Casserole: In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce. Add a layer of cooked spaghetti, followed by a layer of the creamy mixture. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Conclusion
This spaghetti casserole is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. It’s easy to make, versatile, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a comforting meal, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
2. Can I freeze spaghetti casserole?
Absolutely! After assembling, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
3. What can I serve with spaghetti casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a variety of sides such as a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
4. Can I use a different type of meat?
Certainly! Ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage can be used as a substitute for ground beef. You can also make a vegetarian version by using a meat substitute or adding more vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers.
5. How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add more heat, you can include red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce in the meat sauce. Using a spicy marinara sauce can also increase the heat level.
6. Can I add other ingredients to this casserole?
Yes, this recipe is very versatile. Feel free to add ingredients like diced tomatoes, spinach, or different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious spaghetti casserole with your friends and family! 🍝🧀
Feel free to ask if you need more recipes or have any other questions!