Cheesy Spaghetti Casserole

This Cheesy Spaghetti Casserole combines tender spaghetti, savory minced meat, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. It’s a satisfying and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

Spaghetti: 200 g (7 oz)
Minced Meat: 400 g (14 oz)
Onion: 1, finely chopped

Garlic Clove: 1, minced
Carrot: 1, grated
Bell Pepper: 1/2, diced

Tomato: 1, chopped

Vegetable Oil: 2 tbsp (30 ml)

Eggs: 4

Spring Onions: 2-3 stalks, chopped
Milk: 450 ml (1 3/4 cups)
Butter: 50 g (1/4 cup)
Flour: 4 tbsp (30 g)
Grated Cheese: 100 g (1 cup)
Smoked Paprika: 1/2 tsp

Salt and Black Pepper: To taste

Directions

Cook the Spaghetti:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook spaghetti until al dente according to package instructions.
Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Meat and Vegetables:

4. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.

5. Sauté the onion until translucent, about 3 minutes.

6. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.

7. Stir in minced meat and cook until browned.

8. Add grated carrot, diced bell pepper, and chopped tomato. Cook for 5 minutes.

9. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat.

Prepare the Egg Mixture:
10. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, chopped spring onions, and milk until well combined.

Make the Cheese Sauce:
11. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
12. Add flour, whisking constantly to form a smooth roux. Cook for 1 minute.
13. Gradually whisk in milk, stirring until the sauce thickens.
14. Remove from heat and stir in grated cheese until melted and smooth.

Assemble the Casserole:

15. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).

16. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked spaghetti with the meat and vegetable mixture.

17. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.

18. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the spaghetti, ensuring even distribution.

19. Top with the cheese sauce, spreading it evenly.

Bake:

20. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until golden brown and set.

Serve:
21. Let the casserole cool slightly for 5 minutes before serving warm.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh green salad or garlic bread.
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for added nutrition.

Top with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.

Cooking Tips

Use lean minced meat for a lighter dish, or substitute with ground turkey or chicken.

To save time, prepare the meat and vegetable mixture while the spaghetti cooks.
For extra cheesiness, sprinkle additional grated cheese on top before baking.

Nutritional Benefits

Spaghetti: Provides energy-rich carbohydrates.
Minced Meat: High in protein and essential nutrients like iron.
Vegetables: Add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the dish.

Dietary Information

Customizable: Substitute spaghetti with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
Vegetarian Alternative: Replace minced meat with cooked lentils or plant-based meat.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approx.):

Calories: 450
Protein: 25 g

Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fat: 22 g
Fiber: 3 g

Sodium: 480 mg

Storage

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) or microwave until warmed through.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines classic ingredients into a flavorful, cheesy casserole.
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
Great for meal prep and leftovers taste even better!

A hearty and satisfying dish perfect for the whole family.

Conclusion
This Cheesy Spaghetti Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s simple to prepare and packed with flavor. With its creamy cheese sauce, savory meat, and tender spaghetti, it’s perfect for any occasion. Make it tonight for a dinner everyone will love!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, penne, fusilli, or any short pasta works well.
What cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of Parmesan and Gruyère are great options.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the minced meat with lentils, beans, or a plant-based meat alternative.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
Ensure the egg and cheese sauce fully cover the spaghetti, and don’t overbake.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Try mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Cover with foil and reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) or microwave individual portions.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, freeze unbaked or baked portions. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.
Can I use dairy-free alternatives?
Substitute milk and cheese with plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free version.