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. - What herbs can I garnish with?
Fresh parsley, basil, or thyme add a nice touch of flavor and color.
