Cheesy Chili Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

Chili Spaghetti Casserole is comfort food at its finest: tender spaghetti tossed with seasoned ground beef and a hearty chili sauce, finished with diced tomatoes, creamy sour cream, melted cheddar, and a crunchy topping of French-fried onions. Simple to prepare and ready in under an hour, this casserole is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, and tailgates.

Ground Beef Casserole

This Chili Spaghetti Casserole combines two classics into one satisfying dish. Spaghetti noodles soak up a rich chili-flavored sauce, while ground beef, onion flakes, and seasonings give the casserole body and warmth. A scoop of sour cream adds silkiness, shredded cheddar provides a sharp finish, and French-fried onions add a crunchy contrast. Serve it when you want a filling, flavorful meal that pleases both kids and adults.

How to Make Chili Spaghetti Casserole

This casserole is straightforward and forgiving. Start by boiling the spaghetti until al dente, then drain and set aside. Brown the ground beef in a skillet, drain excess fat, and combine the meat with the remaining ingredients in a large bowl. Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese and French-fried onions, and bake until bubbling and golden. The result is a warm, hearty one-dish meal that’s both comforting and convenient.

Ingredients

• 16-oz package vermicelli pasta (or other spaghetti), uncooked
• 1½ lbs lean ground beef
• 2 Tbsp dried minced onion flakes
• 2 tsp chili powder
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• 1 (15-oz) can chili without beans
• 1 (14.5-oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (8-oz) container sour cream
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 (2.8-oz) can French-fried onions

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander to drain pasta
• 12-inch skillet for browning beef
• Mixing bowls
• 9×13-inch baking dish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray and set aside.
2. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef, dried minced onion flakes, chili powder, garlic powder, canned chili, undrained diced tomatoes, sour cream, and cooked pasta. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, then add the French-fried onions.
6. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden. Remove from the oven and let rest a few minutes before serving.

Helpful Tips & Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use ground turkey? Yes — ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in place of ground beef.
• Flavor swaps and additions: Add diced bell peppers, jalapeños, red kidney beans, or corn to vary texture and flavor. For more heat, add cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce.
• Seasoning shortcuts: For extra convenience, use a packet of chili seasoning instead of measuring individual spices.
• Chili choices: A canned chili without beans works great, but you can substitute homemade chili or a regional variety such as Cincinnati-style chili for a different flavor profile.
• Can I make it ahead? Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate. Bring to room temperature before baking for best results, then bake as directed.
• Can I freeze it? Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to four months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking according to the recipe times.
• Storing leftovers: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days. Reheat portions in the microwave or in the oven until heated through.

What to Serve with Chili Spaghetti Casserole

This casserole is bold and hearty; pair it with lighter, crisp sides to balance the meal. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while cornbread or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up extra sauce. Roasted or grilled vegetables add color and freshness to the plate.

• Crisp green salad with mixed lettuce, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette
• Cornbread or buttery garlic breadsticks
• Grilled broccoli or a medley of roasted vegetables

Together these sides make a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal suitable for weeknights, potlucks, or casual gatherings.

Notes

• Refer to the ingredient list above for suggested substitutions and variations.
• Leftovers reheat well in the microwave or in a low oven until warmed through.

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