Cincinnati Spaghetti Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish inspired by the flavors of Cincinnati chili. Traditionally served over spaghetti, this hearty casserole offers a satisfying combination of ground beef, onions, tomato juice, chili powder, and melted Cheddar cheese. With its kid-friendly appeal and delicious taste, this dish is sure to be enjoyed by adults, teens, and younger children alike. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a comforting and flavorful meal, Cincinnati Spaghetti Casserole is an excellent choice.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1/2 cup (80 g) chopped onions
- 2 cups (475 ml) low-sodium tomato juice
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1/2 cup (58 g) shredded Cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 pounds (680 g) extra-lean ground beef, browned
- 12 ounces (340 g) spaghetti, cooked
PREPARATIONS:
- In a slow cooker, combine the chopped onions, low-sodium tomato juice, chili powder, shredded Cheddar cheese, and browned ground beef.
- Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4 hours.
- Check the mixture halfway through the cooking time. If it appears dry, stir in an additional 1 cup (235 ml) of tomato juice.
YIELD: 8 servings
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Use extra-lean ground beef to reduce the fat content of the dish.
- Ensure the ground beef is properly browned before adding it to the slow cooker for optimal flavor and texture.
- If the mixture becomes dry during cooking, add more tomato juice to maintain the desired consistency.
TIPS:
- Serve the Cincinnati Spaghetti Casserole over cooked spaghetti for a complete meal.
- Garnish the dish with additional shredded Cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor and visual appeal.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING:
- 151 g water
- 301 calories (52% from fat, 28% from protein, 20% from carbs)
- 21 g protein
- 18 g total fat
- 8 g saturated fat
- 7 g monounsaturated fat
- 1 g polyunsaturated fat
- 15 g carbs
- 3 g fiber
- 3 g sugar
- 216 mg phosphorus
- 82 mg calcium
- 3 mg iron
- 121 mg sodium
- 434 mg potassium
- 543 IU vitamin A
- 21 mg ATE vitamin E
- 12 mg vitamin C
- 67 mg cholesterol
Cincinnati Spaghetti Casserole is a fantastic spin on the classic Cincinnati chili, providing a convenient and flavorful way to enjoy this beloved dish. With its combination of savory ground beef, onions, tomato juice, and chili powder, this casserole captures the essence of Cincinnati chili while adding its own unique twist.
The recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Simply combine the ingredients in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld and develop over the course of four hours. The result is a comforting and aromatic casserole that is sure to please both young and old alike.
To serve the Cincinnati Spaghetti Casserole, cook the spaghetti separately according to the package instructions. The al dente pasta provides the perfect base for the rich and flavorful casserole. Once cooked, ladle the casserole over the spaghetti, ensuring each serving is generously coated with the delicious sauce. For an extra burst of flavor and texture, top the casserole with additional shredded Cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.
Nutritionally, this dish offers a well-balanced profile, with a moderate calorie count and a good amount of protein. The combination of fiber from the onions and spaghetti, along with the vitamins and minerals present in the ingredients, contributes to the overall nutritional value of the meal.
Whether you’re a fan of Cincinnati chili or simply looking for a new and satisfying casserole recipe, Cincinnati Spaghetti Casserole is sure to hit the spot. Its hearty flavors, kid-friendly appeal, and easy preparation make it a fantastic option for busy families and those seeking comfort in their meals.
In conclusion, Cincinnati Spaghetti Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines the best elements of Cincinnati chili with the convenience of a casserole. With its rich flavors, tender ground beef, and comforting spaghetti base, this recipe is bound to become a favorite among adults and children alike. Treat your taste buds to this delicious and easy-to-make dish, and savor the warmth and flavor it brings to your table.
