Roman Holiday (Baked Spaghetti)

10 servings Prep: 20 m Cook: 40 m Total: 1 h Intermediate
4.0/5 (2)
Roman Holiday (Baked Spaghetti)
Celebrate Mardi Gras in Branson, with Delores’ and Gale’s brother Terry and Cedric Benoit. “An Encore Salute to The Greatest Celebration on Earth;” Branson, Missouri’s ultimate tribute to the Bayou State. An authentic Cajun/Zydeco Festival with a Mardi Gras twist showcasing Louisiana’s finest music, food, arts and crafts and celebrating “La joie de vivre” (Joy of life) Cajun style, with a touch of the Ozarks. This baked spaghetti with ground chuck, vegetables, tomatoes, and cheddar cheese is pure comfort food.

Ingredients

10 servings
  • 2 lbs ground chuck
  • 2 onions, chopped
  • 1 small bell pepper, chopped
  • 4 stalks celery, chopped
  • 1 (16 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 3/4 (12 oz) package spaghetti -
  • 1 small jar pimento olives, sliced
  • 8 oz cheddar cheese, grated
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 small can tomato soup

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions, drain and set aside.
  2. Brown the meat in 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat, until it loses its redness. Add the chopped onions, bell pepper, and celery, cooking until vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the diced tomatoes and tomato soup, cooking until most of the liquid is absorbed, stirring often, about 10-15 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and add the boiled spaghetti, sliced olives, and half the grated cheese. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
  5. Pour into a greased Pyrex dish and top with the rest of the cheese.
  6. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 30 minutes until bubbling hot and cheese is melted and golden.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my casserole too dry?

A: Make sure not to overcook the meat mixture - you want some moisture left when you add the spaghetti. If it looks dry before baking, add a splash of water or beef broth. Don't skip the cheese in the middle, it helps keep it moist.

Q: Can I make this ahead?

A: Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10 minutes to the baking time if going straight from the fridge to the oven.

Tips and Techniques

Don’t overcook the spaghetti - cook it just until al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven. The pimento olives add a nice briny flavor, but you can omit them if not a fan.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • ground chuck: ground turkey or Italian sausage
  • cheddar cheese: mozzarella or Italian cheese blend
  • pimento olives: sliced black olives or green olives

Equipment Needed

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • 13x9 inch Pyrex or baking dish
  • Colander