A Beloved Crowd-Pleasing Dish That Feeds a Congregation
Introduction
Few dishes bring people together like a hearty, comforting Spaghetti Casserole. This recipe has earned its reputation as a “church supper favorite”—a reliable, flavorful, and satisfying meal that consistently disappears from the potluck table. With layers of savory meat sauce, tender pasta, and melted cheese, it’s a dish that appeals to all ages and tastes.
What makes this casserole special is its perfect balance of simplicity and depth. The rich tomato-based meat sauce, seasoned with garlic, oregano, and basil, clings to every strand of spaghetti. Topped with a golden blanket of mozzarella and Parmesan, it bakes into a bubbling, irresistible masterpiece. Whether you’re feeding a large group at a church gathering, a family dinner, or meal prepping for the week, this casserole delivers homestyle comfort with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or substitute ground turkey)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 oz (680g) marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 (14.5 oz/411g) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Casserole
- 1 lb (450g) spaghetti, cooked al dente
- 2 cups (225g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
(Serves 8–10)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the onion and garlic, breaking it into crumbles, until no pink remains (about 5–7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
2. Prepare the Pasta
- Cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente (1–2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and return to the pot.
3. Combine and Layer
- Pour the meat sauce over the cooked spaghetti and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish (or two smaller dishes if preferred).
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden spots.
- For extra browning, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end (watch closely to avoid burning).
5. Garnish and Serve
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Why This Recipe Works
Crowd-Pleasing Qualities
✔ Familiar yet special—comforting flavors with a homemade touch.
✔ Feeds a crowd—easily doubled for large gatherings.
✔ Make-ahead friendly—assemble ahead and bake when needed.
Flavor Secrets
- Diced tomatoes add texture and brightness to the sauce.
- Two cheeses create a gooey, flavorful topping.
- Dried herbs infuse the sauce with Italian-inspired warmth.
Tips for Success
✔ Undercook the pasta slightly—it will soften further while baking.
✔ For a lighter version, use ground turkey and low-fat cheese.
✔ Add veggies like sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition.
✔ Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
- With a crisp green salad and garlic bread.
- As part of a potluck spread alongside baked ziti or lasagna.
- For a kid-friendly meal, serve with extra Parmesan for sprinkling.
Conclusion
This Church Supper Spaghetti Casserole is more than just a meal—it’s a tradition in the making. Its dependable deliciousness has won over countless potluck attendees, and its easy preparation ensures it will remain a go-to for busy cooks.
Whether you’re sharing it with your church community, your family, or just enjoying leftovers the next day, this dish embodies the heartwarming power of homemade food. Give it a try, and it might just become your famous recipe too!
Variation: For a spicy kick, add ½ tsp red pepper flakes to the sauce.