Certainly! 🍝 Let’s dive into the delightful world of Spaghetti-and-Spinach Casserole. This recipe is a perfect blend of hearty ground beef, vibrant spinach, creamy cheeses, and aromatic garlic, all baked together to create a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or preparing for a cozy family gathering, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table!
Spaghetti-and-Spinach Casserole
Overview:
- Preparation Time: 35 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 10
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 1/2 lbs | Ground beef |
| 2 cloves | Garlic, minced |
| – | Salt and pepper, to taste |
| 1 can (10 oz) | Spaghetti sauce |
| 2 cups | Monterey Jack cheese, shredded |
| 1 cup | Sour cream |
| 1 | Egg |
| 1/2 cup | Parmesan cheese, grated |
| 1 1/2 cups | Cooked spaghetti noodles |
| 1 pkg (10 oz) | Frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Beef Mixture:
- In a large nonstick skillet, add the ground beef and minced garlic.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
-
-
Add Spaghetti Sauce:
- Stir in the can of spaghetti sauce and Italian seasoning.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
-
Prepare the Spinach Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the thawed and drained chopped spinach, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, sour cream, egg, and a pinch of garlic salt.
- Mix everything together until well combined and creamy.
-
Combine Noodles and Mixtures:
- Fold the cooked spaghetti noodles into the spinach and cheese mixture.
- Ensure the noodles are evenly coated with the creamy mixture, creating a luscious base for the casserole.
-
Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 13×9 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Spoon half of the spinach and noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the grated Parmesan cheese over the layer.
-
Layer with Beef Mixture:
- Spoon the prepared beef mixture over the first layer of the casserole.
- Ensure the beef is spread evenly across the dish.
- Top with the remaining spinach and noodle mixture, spreading it out to cover the beef layer.
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Final Touches:
- Sprinkle the remaining grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole.
- This cheesy layer will melt beautifully in the oven, creating a golden crust on top of the casserole.
-
Bake to Perfection:
- Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven.
- Bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is golden brown.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Serve hot, scooping out generous portions onto plates.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions:
- This Spaghetti-and-Spinach Casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette.
- For a heartier meal, serve with garlic bread or cheesy garlic knots on the side.
- Don’t forget a glass of your favorite wine or a refreshing iced tea to complete the meal!
Tips and Tricks:
- To make this recipe vegetarian-friendly, simply omit the ground beef and add extra veggies like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- For a lighter version, use lean ground turkey or chicken in place of the beef.
- Customize the cheeses to your liking! Try a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone for a different flavor profile.
- Make this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Simply pop it in the oven when ready to bake for a quick and easy meal prep option.
Now that you have this delicious Spaghetti-and-Spinach Casserole recipe in your arsenal, it’s time to gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get cooking! This flavorful and comforting dish is bound to become a family favorite, perfect for any occasion 🍽️✨.
