Name: Church Supper Spaghetti Casserole (Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Bake)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz. uncooked spaghetti; 1 1/2 lbs. 80/20 ground beef; 1 large (12 oz.) yellow onion, chopped (about 1 1/2 cups); 1 small (5 oz.) green bell pepper, chopped (about 3/4 cup); 1 1/2 cups frozen sweet peas, thawed (from 1 [10-oz.] pkg.); 1 1/2 cups frozen corn, thawed (from 1 [10-oz.] pkg.); 1 (14 1/2-oz.) can diced tomatoes; 1 Tbsp. chili powder; 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt; 1/2 tsp. garlic powder; 1/2 tsp. black pepper; 1/2 cup tap water; 1 (10 1/2-oz.) canned condensed Cheddar cheese soup; 8 oz. pre-shredded sharp Cheddar cheese (about 2 cups), divided

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If you’re craving a dish that brings all the comfort and nostalgia of a community gathering right to your dining table, this Church Supper Spaghetti Casserole (Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Bake) is exactly what you need. It’s a hearty, cheesy, and utterly satisfying casserole that combines perfectly cooked spaghetti with seasoned ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and a luscious Cheddar cheese sauce. This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but fills your kitchen with an aroma that says home and happiness. It’s the kind of meal that invites everyone to gather ’round, share stories, and enjoy something truly special.

Church Supper Spaghetti Casserole (Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Bake) - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its simple but essential ingredients, each playing a vital role in developing the layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the tender spaghetti that carries all the goodness to the creamy cheese that binds it all together, every element is a must-have.

12 oz. uncooked spaghetti: The sturdy pasta base that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
1 1/2 lbs. 80/20 ground beef: Adds savory richness and a satisfying protein boost.
1 large (12 oz.) yellow onion, chopped: Brings sweetness and depth when sautéed.
1 small (5 oz.) green bell pepper, chopped: Adds a hint of freshness and slight crunch.
1 Tbsp. chili powder: Offers a mild warmth and complexity to the seasoning.
1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt: Essential for enhancing every flavor in the dish.
1/2 tsp. garlic powder: Adds that subtle garlicky aroma without overpowering.
1/2 tsp. black pepper: Gives a gentle kick to balance all the savory elements.
1 1/2 cups frozen sweet peas, thawed: Provides bursts of natural sweetness and color.
1 1/2 cups frozen corn, thawed: Adds texture and a touch of natural sweetness.
1 (14 1/2-oz.) can diced tomatoes: Introduces acidity and freshness to brighten the mixture.
1/2 cup tap water: Keeps the casserole moist and helps meld flavors together.
1 (10 1/2-oz.) canned condensed Cheddar cheese soup: The creamy, cheesy heart of this casserole.
8 oz. pre-shredded sharp Cheddar cheese (about 2 cups), divided: For that irresistible melted cheese topping and savory layers.

How to Make Church Supper Spaghetti Casserole (Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Bake)

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F because we’ll finish this off with a warm, cheesy bake. Cook the spaghetti following the package directions until it’s perfectly tender. Once drained, set it aside at room temperature in a medium bowl. This pasta will be the backbone of your casserole and needs to be ready to absorb that creamy cheese and ground beef goodness.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large, high-sided nonstick skillet, add your ground beef and break it apart with a spoon. Cook it over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and no pink remains—around 7 minutes. Then drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from getting greasy, but don’t wipe the skillet clean because the next steps build on all those tasty bits left behind.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Bell Pepper

Add the chopped yellow onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the vegetables soften and start to release their natural sweetness—about 3 minutes. This step layers in fresh flavors and a bit of texture that really make the casserole shine.

Step 4: Season and Add Vegetables

Now it’s time for the flavor magic. Sprinkle in the chili powder, kosher salt, garlic powder, and black pepper, stirring everything together until well combined. Next, add in the thawed sweet peas, corn, diced tomatoes with their juices, and the half cup of water. Stir to blend everything and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is heated through and the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Stir in Cheese Soup and Pasta

Pour in the condensed Cheddar cheese soup and cook the mixture until it’s evenly coated and begins to simmer, giving it about 3 minutes. Then add the cooked spaghetti directly into the skillet and toss everything gently but thoroughly until the pasta is evenly coated and mixed with the cheesy, beefy goodness. This step ensures every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 6: Layer the Casserole

Remove the skillet from heat and transfer about half of your spaghetti mixture (roughly 6 cups) to an ungreased 13- x 9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with 1 cup of shredded sharp Cheddar cheese. Repeat layering with the remaining spaghetti mixture and finish topping with the last cup of Cheddar cheese. These layers create that classic, gooey, cheesy bake that makes everybody come back for seconds.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pop the assembled casserole into your preheated oven and bake until it’s heated through and the cheese on top has melted into a bubbling, golden blanket—roughly 20 minutes. Once out of the oven, it’s ready to serve and will instantly become your go-to comfort food.

How to Serve Church Supper Spaghetti Casserole (Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Bake)

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or green onions adds a lovely pop of color and freshness to balance the richness. You can also add a light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. These simple touches elevate the presentation and flavor with minimal effort.

Side Dishes

The casserole is filling on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette or some buttery garlic bread rounds out the meal perfectly. The freshness and crunch from a salad or the aromatic bread provide a lovely contrast to the creamy, hearty bake.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, consider serving individual portions in small ramekins sprinkled with extra cheese and broiled until lightly browned on top. For potluck dinners or family gatherings, a large casserole dish right from the oven is festive and inviting, encouraging everyone to dive in and savor the memories the dish promises.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Church Supper Spaghetti Casserole (Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Bake) tastes just as fantastic the next day. Transfer any extras into an airtight container and keep them refrigerated for up to 3 days. This dish reheats beautifully, making it a perfect meal prep option.

Freezing

If you want to save it for a longer time, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave covered loosely with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel, checking every minute until hot. For a larger portion, reheat covered in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly—about 20 minutes. Adding a splash of water before reheating helps maintain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta instead of spaghetti?

Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional and works great here, feel free to swap in penne, rotini, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly and be sure it holds up well in a baked dish.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and increase the amount of vegetables, maybe adding mushrooms or lentils for a hearty texture. Use a vegetarian-friendly cheese soup or substitute with a homemade cheese sauce for richness.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake later?

Definitely. You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, bake it straight from the fridge—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time until it’s warmed through.

What type of cheese is best for this casserole?

Sharp Cheddar cheese is recommended because it melts beautifully and provides that classic tangy flavor. However, you can mix in some mozzarella for extra gooeyness or try smoked cheese for a unique twist.

Can I add more vegetables to the dish?

Of course! This recipe is very adaptable. Adding mushrooms, zucchini, or chopped carrots can enhance nutrition and texture. Just be sure to adjust seasoning and cooking times so all ingredients are tender and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend the Church Supper Spaghetti Casserole (Cheesy Ground Beef Pasta Bake) enough for anyone craving a dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. It’s easy to make, delightfully cheesy, and packed with comforting flavors that bring people together. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a potluck event, this casserole promises smiles and satisfied appetites all around. Give it a try—you’re going to fall in love with every cheesy, meaty, veggie-packed bite.