Description
A hearty cornbread spaghetti casserole featuring tender spaghetti in a savory ground beef and tomato sauce, layered with cheddar cheese and topped with a golden, fluffy cornbread crust.
Ingredients
- 1 pound spaghetti
- 1.5 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (8.5-ounce) package cornbread mix, plus ingredients needed to prepare
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the spaghetti according to package directions, drain well, and set aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until no longer pink, then drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce the heat, and cook for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce and transfer the mixture to a large baking dish.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the spaghetti mixture.
- Prepare the cornbread mix according to the package instructions.
- Spread the cornbread batter evenly over the cheese layer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, add smoked paprika, chili flakes, diced jalapeños, or a tablespoon of tomato paste to the meat sauce. Avoid overmixing the cornbread batter to keep the topping tender. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
