Baked Spaghetti Casserole
Are you tired of the same old spaghetti routine and looking to shake things up in the kitchen? Well, say hello to your new favorite go-to dish – Baked Spaghetti Casserole!
This delightful twist on the classic spaghetti recipe takes your taste buds on a flavorful journey while adding a touch of warmth and comfort to your dinner table.
What substitutions can I use in the baked spaghetti recipe?
First things first, let’s talk about the star of the show – the banza protein pasta made from chickpeas. If you’re aiming for a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste, this substitution is a game-changer.
Banza pasta is not only gluten-free but also packed with protein, making it a guilt-free choice that doesn’t compromise on texture or flavor.
The chickpea-based pasta adds a unique nutty undertone to the dish, elevating the overall taste experience. Plus, it’s an excellent option for those who are looking to incorporate more plant-based protein into their diets.
Banza Pasta: buy here!
Now, let’s dive into the magic of the Baked Spaghetti Casserole itself.
This dish is a delightful medley of flavors and textures, combining al dente pasta, rich tomato sauce, savory ground meat, and a generous layer of gooey melted cheese.
The casserole is baked to perfection, creating a golden crust on top while keeping the inside moist and flavorful. The result?
A comforting, family-friendly meal that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve.
One of the best things about this baked recipe is its versatility. Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences.
Add extra veggies, play around with different cheese combinations, or even throw in some herbs for an extra kick.
The Baked Spaghetti Casserole is like a blank canvas waiting for your culinary creativity to shine.
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Got Leftovers?
Now, let’s talk about the inevitable leftovers. If you’re lucky enough to have some of this delicious casserole left, fear not – it reheats like a dream!
For optimal leftover storage, transfer any remaining portions to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly.
To maintain the integrity of the pasta and prevent it from becoming mushy, consider storing the sauce separately.
This way, you can reheat the pasta and sauce separately, combining them for a fresh and flavorful experience.
When reheating, a microwave does the job quickly and efficiently, but if you want to recapture that crispy top layer, consider using the oven.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the casserole with foil to prevent excessive browning, and bake until heated through.
Remember to sprinkle a bit of water over the pasta to add some moisture before reheating to keep it from drying out.
In conclusion, the Baked Spaghetti Casserole is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, and the substitution of Banza protein pasta adds a healthy and tasty dimension.
With its ease of preparation, adaptability, and fantastic leftovers, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a dinner that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Baked Spaghetti Casserole
Equipment
- 1 9×13 glass baking dish
Ingredients
- 1 pound of Banza protein pasta or favorite regular pasta
- 1 pound ground meat beef or turkey
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper
- 3 cloves of garlic minced
- 1 14.5 oz jar diced tomatoes
- 2 jars spaghetti sauce
- 2 T Italian Seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese for topping
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 °F. This ensures that it's ready to go once your casserole is assembled.
- Follow the package instructions to cook the Banza protein pasta (or your chosen pasta) until it’s al dente. Remember, the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, so you don’t want it to be too soft.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat until it’s browned and cooked through. Add the onions and bell pepper to the skillet with the cooked meat and sauté. Once translucent, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes)
- Pour the spaghetti sauce into the skillet with the meat, onions, and garlic. Add the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture well.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the skillet with the meat and sauce. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated in the flavorful sauce.
- Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top, and finish it off with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for that extra layer of flavor.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
- Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then slice and serve your Baked Spaghetti Casserole.
Nutrition
Tried this recipe for yourself? Leave a comment and photos below!
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