30-Minute Spaghetti Casserole
This creamy and hearty spaghetti casserole is quick to prepare, packed with protein, and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 ounces Spaghetti The perfect base, offering a satisfying bite.
- 2 cups Pasta sauce The essence of tomato goodness, binding it all together.
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound Ground beef High in protein, providing rich flavor.
- 1 medium Chopped white onion Adds subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves Minced garlic Brings a robust aroma that enhances the dish.
Dairy
- 1 cup Sour cream Creates a delightful creaminess without being overly heavy.
- 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese Melty goodness that brings a stretchy, gooey texture.
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese Sharp and flavorful, complementing the mozzarella.
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Adds a nutty, salty finish to the top.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Begin boiling a large pot of water, adding a pinch of salt.
- While the water heats, chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the spaghetti and set it aside in a large mixing bowl.
Cooking and Assembling
- In a large skillet over medium heat, combine ground beef and chopped onion; cook until browned, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking, stirring until fragrant.
- Pour the pasta sauce into the skillet, mixing well with the beef and onions.
- Stir in sour cream and half of the shredded cheeses, until well combined.
- Combine this mixture with the cooked spaghetti and mix thoroughly.
Baking
- Transfer the combined mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish.
- Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, followed by Parmesan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve warm.
Notes
For a creamier texture, warm the sour cream before mixing it in. Substitute ground turkey for a lighter option while retaining protein. Cook the spaghetti slightly less than al dente, as it will continue to cook while baking. Make sure to layer the top cheese generously for a perfectly golden crust.