Introduction

Looking for a hearty, comforting dinner that’s easy to make and sure to please the whole family? This Beef Spaghetti Casserole is the perfect solution! With layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this dish combines the best of spaghetti and casserole for a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for leftovers to enjoy later, this recipe is sure to become a weeknight favorite. Plus, it’s so simple to make with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry!

Detailed Ingredients

• 🍝 1 pound spaghetti
• 🍖 2 pounds 90% lean ground beef
• 🧅 1 large onion, diced
• 🧄 6 medium garlic cloves, minced
• 🧀 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
• 🍅 4 cups marinara sauce
• 🍦 ½ cup sour cream
• 🌿 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• 🍚 1½ teaspoons granulated white sugar
• 🧂 1 teaspoon salt
• 🌶 ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 🧀 2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese, divided
• 🧀 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 🌿 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Direction

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and spray the inside of a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick spray.
2. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Rinse, drain, and set aside.
3. In a large skillet or 5-quart pot, heat over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onion is softened (about 8 minutes).
4. Reduce the heat to medium, then stir in the cream cheese and cook until it’s fully melted and incorporated.
5. Add the marinara sauce, sour cream, Italian seasoning, sugar, salt, and black pepper to the mixture. Stir until fully combined.
6. Stir in the cooked spaghetti, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese. Mix everything together well.
7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
8. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden-brown top, you can broil it for 2–3 minutes after baking.
9. Once baked, sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness, then serve.

My Story

I’ve always loved classic comfort foods, and Beef Spaghetti Casserole quickly became one of my favorites. The combination of cheesy, creamy goodness with the savory, seasoned beef always makes my taste buds sing. I remember the first time I made it for my family; the entire house smelled like a warm hug. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, and the leftovers are just as tasty the next day. I love that it’s a meal that my family asks for again and again. It’s the perfect blend of simple ingredients and rich, comforting flavors that everyone can enjoy.

FAQ

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Yes! Ground turkey can be a great substitute for beef if you want a leaner option. It will still work wonderfully in this casserole.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Simply bake it, let it cool completely, and then cover it tightly before freezing. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it in the oven until hot, or bake from frozen at 350°F until heated through.

Q: What if I don’t have marinara sauce?
A: You can use any tomato-based pasta sauce, like spaghetti sauce or pizza sauce. It will still give you that delicious flavor.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
A: Of course! Feel free to toss in some sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to sneak in some extra veggies.

Suggestion

1. For extra richness, stir in some ricotta cheese into the sauce before mixing in the spaghetti.
2. Top the casserole with crumbled garlic bread for an added crunch and flavor.
3. Try using a blend of different cheeses, like provolone or gouda, for a unique twist on the flavor.
4. Serve the casserole with a crisp green salad on the side to balance out the richness.
5. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture if you like a little heat.

Conclusion

This Beef Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines the best of pasta and casserole in one delicious, cheesy dish. With layers of savory ground beef, creamy sauce, and melty cheese, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also customizable to suit your family’s tastes. Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner after a long day or something to feed a crowd, this casserole fits the bill. Don’t forget to top it off with some fresh parsley for an extra burst of flavor. Try it today, and you’ll see why this recipe is a staple in my kitchen!