counter create hit
Img 6800

‏Old-school spaghetti

by
Pin
Share

Old-School Spaghetti Casserole

This Old-School Spaghetti Casserole is a nostalgic, comforting dish loaded with layers of creamy cheese, savory meat sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner or potluck dish that will remind you of classic family dinners.

Ingredients:

  • 454 grams rotini (elbow or spaghetti can be substituted)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (for pasta water)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (for greasing the pan)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic (from the jar)
  • 1 medium green bell pepper (diced)
  • 1 medium onion (white or yellow, diced)
  • 227 grams mushrooms (sliced)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (for seasoning the vegetables)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 454 grams ground beef (sirloin, crumbled)
  • 794 grams red pasta sauce (about 2 standard jars)
  • 60 ml sour cream (about 1/4 cup)
  • 120 grams cream cheese (softened, about 4 oz)
  • 120 grams cottage cheese (about 1/2 cup)
  • 500-750 ml shredded cheese (Mozzarella, Italian blend, or Cheddar, divided)

Preparation:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini (or your preferred pasta) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
  2. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the minced garlic, diced bell pepper, onion, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  3. Season with kosher salt and black pepper.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

  1. Add the ground beef to the same pan with the vegetables. Break the beef into small pieces while cooking.
  2. Season with additional salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, then drain any excess fat.
  3. Pour in the pasta sauce and stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer while you prepare the cheese mixture.
See also  Baked Apple Oatmeal

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and cottage cheese.
  2. Using a hand mixer (or a spoon if preferred), blend the ingredients until smooth and well mixed.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9×12 baking dish with the butter.
  3. Layer half of the cooked pasta in the baking dish.
  4. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the pasta.
  5. Add the remaining pasta on top of the cheese layer.
  6. Pour the meat sauce over the pasta, spreading it evenly.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

  1. Cover the casserole with foil (spray the underside of the foil with oil to prevent sticking).
  2. Bake for 20 minutes.
  3. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top, and return to the oven.
  4. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve

  1. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  2. Enjoy this comforting, cheesy spaghetti casserole with your favorite side salad or garlic bread!

Recipe Notes:

  • Pasta choice: You can substitute any type of pasta you prefer, including spaghetti, elbow macaroni, or penne.
  • Cheese options: Feel free to customize the cheese topping with your favorite varieties. A blend of mozzarella and cheddar adds a great texture and flavor.
  • Make-ahead tip: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking.

Total Time:

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Servings: 6-8

This old-school casserole is sure to bring back memories of classic spaghetti bakes from your childhood!

Pin
Share