Pasta Cheese Casserole: A Delightful Way to Use Leftover Spaghetti Sauce
This comforting Pasta Cheese Casserole is not only a fantastic way to utilize leftover spaghetti sauce, which many of us seem to have a penchant for making in excess, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. With layers of tender pasta, savory sauce, and a melty cheese topping, this dish is bound to become a household favorite. You can even switch things up by using chicken and fettuccine sauce, making it versatile enough for various occasions. Please note that the preparation time mentioned does not include the time needed to prepare your sauce and noodles.
Recipe Details
| Cook Time | 45 minutes |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 55 minutes |
| Description | A delicious way to repurpose leftover spaghetti sauce. This casserole is yummy, easy to make, and perfect for feeding a crowd. |
| Category | Spaghetti |
| Servings | 8 |
| Aggregated Rating | 5 (2 Reviews) |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 506.9 |
| Fat | 22.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11 g |
| Cholesterol | 67.2 mg |
| Sodium | 1076.5 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 47.3 g |
| Fiber | 1.9 g |
| Sugar | 12.3 g |
| Protein | 27.8 g |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pasta | 12 ounces |
| Ground beef | 4 ounces |
| Mozzarella cheese | ½ – 1 cup |
| Cheddar cheese | 2 cups |
| Parmesan cheese | 1 cup |
| Spaghetti sauce (leftover) | 1 cup |
Instructions
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Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole will bake evenly and thoroughly.
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Take half of the cooked pasta noodles and create a layer in the bottom of a casserole dish, preferably one that measures around 10 x 10 inches, providing a solid base for your layers.
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Next, generously spread a layer of your leftover spaghetti sauce over the pasta. Make sure to cover the noodles completely, allowing them to absorb the rich flavors of the sauce as it bakes.
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If you have meatballs that are separate from the sauce, place those on top of the sauce layer, allowing the savory meat to mingle with the sauce and pasta.
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In a separate bowl, mix together all the cheeses—mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan—until they are well combined. Layer about half of this cheesy mixture on top of the casserole, creating a deliciously gooey layer.
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Repeat the layering process by adding another layer of pasta followed by the remaining sauce, meatballs, and finally topping it all off with the remaining cheese mixture.
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For a touch of color and flavor, consider sprinkling some dried parsley over the top of the cheese layer before placing the casserole in the oven.
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Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 to 45 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly, creating a mouthwatering crust that promises to delight your taste buds.
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Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help it set slightly, making it easier to serve and enjoy.
This Pasta Cheese Casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family gatherings, offering comfort and satisfaction in every bite. With its rich flavors and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to become a beloved addition to your meal rotation. Enjoy!
