Church Supper Spaghetti Casserole

Whether it’s a potluck, family reunion, or a busy weeknight dinner, this Church Supper Spaghetti Casserole is a hearty meal that’s sure to please. This easy recipe brings together savory beef, colorful veggies, and a satisfying layer of cheddar cheese.

Perfect for feeding a lot of people, this dish is a hit at gatherings or family dinners, making it a go-to for those needing a reliable main dish. It’s also a great option to prepare in advance, giving you more time to enjoy the company of family and friends.

Don’t overcook the pasta: When preparing your spaghetti, cook it just until al dente. This way, it won’t become mushy when baking.

Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole a day before and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Simply bake before serving.

Cheese varieties: Feel free to substitute cheddar cheese with a cheese mixture of mozzarella and parmesan for a different flavor profile.

Can this Church Supper Casserole be made in advanced>

Yes, it can. Prepare the casserole as directed in the recipe and refrigerate it unbaked. This can be done up to 12 hours in advance.

Simply pop it in the oven when ready to bake. Since the assembled casserole will be chilled from the refrigerator, allow for extra cooking time so that the cheese can melt and the edges become bubbly.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or additional vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until warmed through.

Recipes Needed:

Lean ground beef: A perfect base for the meat mixture, offering a rich, savory flavor without much fat.
Onion: Adds depth and a slightly sweet flavor to the sauce.
Green pepper: Provides a pop of color and a fresh, slightly bitter taste.
Diced tomatoes: Creates the base of a flavorful tomato sauce with a fresh, tangy bite.
Water: Thins the sauce, allowing the flavors to simmer and meld together.
Chili powder: Brings just the right amount of spice and warmth to the meat sauce.
Frozen corn and peas: Add sweetness and texture, making this a colorful dish.
Mushroom stems and pieces: A hearty addition to the final dish, lending an earthy flavor.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to balance the flavors.
Spaghetti: The main component of this spaghetti casserole, best served al dente.

Church Supper Spaghetti Casserole ingredients

Substitutions

Ground beef: Swap for ground turkey or a vegetarian alternative for a lighter dish.
Cheddar cheese: Try mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses for a more authentic Italian food vibe.
Spaghetti: You can use thin spaghetti, dry spaghetti, or even chow mein noodles if you’re feeling adventurous!
Corn and peas: Feel free to substitute with other frozen veggies like bell peppers or carrots.

Church Supper Spaghetti Casserole

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare a deep casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
In a dutch oven or large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and green pepper. Crumble the meat as it cooks and cook until the meat is no longer pink. (If not using lean ground beef, drain the excess fat.)
Add the tomatoes, water, and chili powder. Cover the skillet and cook for 30 minutes.
To the skillet, stir in the corn, peas, and mushrooms. Season with salt and black pepper, as desired.
In a large bowl, combine the sauce with the cooked spaghetti.
Transfer half of the spaghetti to the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the casserole with half of the cheese and then repeat the layers.
Bake the casserole for 20 to 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the edges are bubbly.