Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Whether you’re trying to recreate the taste of your school cafeteria spaghetti or just looking for an easy and hearty dinner, this recipe is perfect for busy nights. The combination of ground beef, bell peppers, and a rich spaghetti sauce gives it a deep flavor, while the melted Cheddar cheese adds a satisfying cheesy finish. It’s quick, filling, and a surefire way to please the whole family!

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooking spray
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 medium onion, chopped
½ green bell pepper, chopped
1 envelope dry Italian salad dressing mix (such as Good Seasons®)
1 ½ pounds ground beef
1 (26-ounce) jar spaghetti sauce
1 (16-ounce) package spaghetti
4 cups grated sharp Cheddar cheese

directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray.
Prepare the beef mixture: Heat vegetable oil in a wide pan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until soft (about 5 to 7 minutes).
Mix the dry Italian dressing mix into the ground beef and add to the hot pan. Cook until the beef is browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the spaghetti sauce. Let it simmer over medium heat for 15 minutes.
Cook the spaghetti: While the beef mixture is simmering, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti in the boiling water, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite (about 12 minutes). Drain the spaghetti.
Assemble the casserole: Add the drained spaghetti to the beef mixture and stir to combine. Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Top with grated sharp Cheddar cheese.
Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake until the cheese is melted and browned, about 10 minutes.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and timing

Servings: 8
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian version: Swap the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or use extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for a veggie-packed option.
Cheese options: While sharp Cheddar cheese adds a nice tang, you can try using mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor.
Spicy twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the beef mixture for a bit of heat.
Add-ins: Toss in cooked sausage or pepperoni slices for an extra meaty flavor.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in individual portions or as a whole casserole for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven. If reheating from frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Certainly! You can swap the spaghetti with any pasta you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or macaroni.

3. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the entire dish ahead of time, assemble it, and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

4. How can I make it spicier?

To add some heat, you can include crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or even a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.

5. Can I make this dish without cheese?

Absolutely! You can skip the cheese or substitute with a dairy-free cheese option if preferred.

6. What can I serve with this casserole?

This dish pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

7. Can I use homemade spaghetti sauce?

Yes, you can substitute store-bought sauce with homemade marinara sauce for a more personalized flavor.

8. How do I make this dish ahead and freeze it?

Assemble the casserole, then cover it tightly and freeze before baking. When you’re ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.

9. How do I prevent the spaghetti from being too soggy?

Be sure not to overcook the pasta. Slightly undercooked spaghetti (al dente) works best when baking in the casserole.

10. Can I add more vegetables to the dish?

Yes! Feel free to add more vegetables, like mushrooms, spinach, or even roasted red peppers, to the beef mixture.

Conclusion

School Cafeteria Spaghetti is a comforting, hearty dish with the perfect balance of savory flavors and cheesy goodness. This version adds a more grown-up touch with a rich sauce and sharp Cheddar cheese. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a casual gathering, it’s sure to bring a touch of nostalgia and a whole lot of flavor to your table.