It’s fun to switch up Spaghetti every once in a while, whether we decide to make Chicken Spaghetti, Spaghetti Chili, or this new Spaghetti Casserole!
Easy Baked Spaghetti Casserole
Have I mentioned how much I enjoy casseroles? Especially this Spaghetti Casserole! Here is why:
SIMPLE. They’re so easy to whip up and throw into the oven for dinner! KID APPROVED. All the kids love this (and the adults do too!) HEARTY. Pasta, meat sauce, and lots of cheese! What more could you want? MAKE AHEAD + FREEZER MEAL. Casseroles are also great for making ahead of time or making as a freezer meal for later.
This casserole is simple a good, classic recipe that will never go out of style.
How to Make Spaghetti Casserole
Garnish with any fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
Making Ahead + Side Options
One reason I love casseroles is because they typically make a great freezer meal. This dish is no different!
Breaking the spaghetti noodles into quarters makes it easier to cut, serve and eat Try using OTHER PASTAS: angel hair is the most similar and keeps the “spaghetti” look, but you can also use shaped pasta such as penne and bow tie. Try other cheeses: You can add Ricotta cheese, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese or even cottage cheese. If you can, avoid the pre shredded bagged cheese. It contains a coating that keeps the cheese from sticking together, but it also keeps the cheese from melting as well. Change up the meat. Use Italian sausage instead of, or along with ground beef or use ground chicken or ground turkey. Add Veggies. Sneak in some diced onions, mushrooms, broccoli or bell peppers. Spice it up with red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
The only adjustment to make is undercook the pasta then assemble as written. Cover the pan with plastic wrap then again with aluminum foil.
FREEZE for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it thaw in the fridge and bake according to directions. (be sure to remove the plastic wrap)
MAKE AHEAD. If you don’t want to freeze this dish you can still make it up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate until baking.
Recipe Video Recipe Video Recipe Video
