🍝 Baked Church Supper Spaghetti
A comforting, old-fashioned casserole that feeds a crowd—just like the beloved potluck dish from church basements and community gatherings!
⏲️ Prep Time: 20 mins | 🍳 Cook Time: 40 mins | 🍽️ Serves: 10-12
📝 Ingredients
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1 lb spaghetti, broken in half
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1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage for extra flavor)
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1 medium onion, diced
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1 green bell pepper, diced (optional)
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce (or 3 cups homemade)
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1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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½ tsp salt + ¼ tsp black pepper
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1 cup sour cream (or ricotta for creaminess)
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Prep pasta – Cook spaghetti 1 minute less than package directions. Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Brown meat – In a skillet, cook beef, onion, and bell pepper over medium heat until meat is no longer pink. Add garlic; cook 1 minute. Drain fat.
3️⃣ Sauce it – Stir in marinara, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5 mins.
4️⃣ Layer – In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half the spaghetti. Top with sour cream, then half the meat sauce. Sprinkle 1 cup mozzarella. Repeat layers.
5️⃣ Cheese it up – Top with remaining mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan.
6️⃣ Bake – Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 mins. Uncover; bake 10-15 mins until bubbly and golden.
7️⃣ Rest & serve – Let cool 10 mins. Garnish with parsley.
💡 Pro Tips
✔ Make ahead – Assemble (unbaked) and refrigerate overnight. Add 10 mins to bake time.
✔ Add veggies – Stir in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition.
✔ Crispy edges? Broil 2-3 mins at the end.
⛪ Why It’s a “Church Supper” Classic
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Feeds a crowd – Perfect for potlucks or family reunions.
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Budget-friendly – Uses pantry staples.
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Nostalgic flavor – Just like Grandma’s version!
Pair with garlic bread and a simple salad!
Variation: Swap spaghetti for penne or add a dash of red pepper flakes for heat. 😊