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Church Supper Spaghetti is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for large gatherings. This recipe features a savory combination of ground beef, vegetables, and pasta, topped with melted cheddar cheese. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s sure to satisfy a crowd, making it ideal for church dinners or family gatherings.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 large onion, chopped
1 medium green pepper, chopped
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup water
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 package (10 ounces) frozen corn, thawed
1 package (10 ounces) frozen peas, thawed
1 can (4 ounces) mushroom stems and pieces, drained
Salt and pepper to taste
12 ounces spaghetti, cooked and drained
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Directions

In a large skillet, cook beef, onion, and green pepper over medium heat, breaking the beef into crumbles, until the meat is no longer pink.
Add diced tomatoes, water, and chili powder. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes.
Stir in the thawed corn, peas, mushrooms, salt, and pepper. Mix in the cooked spaghetti.
Layer half of the mixture in a greased 4-quart baking dish and sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheese. Repeat layers.
Bake uncovered at 350°F for 20 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.

Nutrients

1 serving: 290 calories
10g fat (6g saturated fat)
39mg cholesterol
259mg sodium
34g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 4g fiber)
17g protein

Why Church Supper Spaghetti is Perfect for Large Gatherings

One of the main reasons why Church Supper Spaghetti is so well-suited for large gatherings is its versatility and the fact that it can feed a crowd with minimal effort. The recipe is designed to be easily doubled or even tripled, which means it can be adapted to fit any group size, from small families to large church groups. The ingredients are also simple and widely available, making it an affordable option for those on a budget. Moreover, the dish can be made in advance, stored in the refrigerator, and reheated when needed, allowing hosts to prepare the meal ahead of time and reduce stress on the day of the event.

Another benefit of Church Supper Spaghetti is its ability to please a variety of dietary preferences. While the recipe is traditionally made with ground beef, it can be easily customized by swapping out the meat for alternatives such as turkey, chicken, or even a meatless option like tofu or tempeh. The vegetables included in the recipe, such as corn, peas, and green peppers, add color and flavor, while also providing essential nutrients. This makes it a balanced dish that can be enjoyed by both meat-eaters and vegetarians alike.

The Flavor Profile of Church Supper Spaghetti

The flavor of Church Supper Spaghetti is rich and comforting, with a perfect blend of savory and slightly spicy notes. The ground beef is cooked until browned and crumbled, creating a hearty base for the dish. The addition of chili powder brings a subtle warmth to the sauce, while the diced tomatoes provide a tangy sweetness. The frozen corn and peas add texture and sweetness, while the mushrooms contribute an earthy depth to the overall flavor.

The melted cheddar cheese on top ties the dish together, adding a creamy and savory element that makes each bite indulgent and satisfying. The cheese not only enhances the flavor but also gives the dish a beautiful golden-brown finish when baked. Overall, Church Supper Spaghetti strikes a wonderful balance between savory, sweet, and slightly spicy, making it a favorite for a wide range of palates.

Cooking Tips for the Perfect Church Supper Spaghetti

To ensure that your Church Supper Spaghetti turns out perfectly every time, there are a few cooking tips to keep in mind. First, when cooking the ground beef, it’s important to break it up into small crumbles so that it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors of the other ingredients. Be sure to drain any excess fat from the meat after it’s cooked to prevent the dish from becoming greasy.

When simmering the beef mixture with the tomatoes, water, and chili powder, don’t rush the process. Allow the sauce to simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is key to developing the rich, savory sauce that forms the base of the dish.

In terms of pasta, make sure to cook the spaghetti al dente before adding it to the mixture. Overcooked spaghetti can become mushy when baked, which can affect the texture of the dish. After cooking, be sure to drain the pasta well to avoid adding excess moisture to the dish.

When layering the casserole in the baking dish, it’s important to start with a layer of the beef mixture, followed by a generous amount of cheese. Repeat the layers, making sure to use enough cheese to create a gooey, cheesy top. The cheese will melt and create a delicious golden-brown crust, adding both flavor and texture to the dish.

Making Church Supper Spaghetti Ahead of Time

One of the great things about Church Supper Spaghetti is that it can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy hosts. To prepare the dish in advance, simply follow the recipe through the step of layering the casserole. Once assembled, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the casserole at 350°F for 20-30 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

If you prefer to freeze the dish for later use, Church Supper Spaghetti can be frozen after assembling. Just be sure to let the dish cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to eat, bake the frozen casserole at 350°F for 40-45 minutes, or until it’s fully heated through. You can even make multiple batches and freeze them in advance for future gatherings.

Customization Options for Church Supper Spaghetti

While the recipe as written is delicious on its own, Church Supper Spaghetti offers plenty of opportunities for customization. If you’d like to add extra vegetables, consider incorporating diced carrots, zucchini, or spinach into the mix. These vegetables will not only enhance the nutritional value of the dish but also add more texture and flavor.

For those who prefer a spicier dish, you can adjust the level of heat by adding more chili powder or even incorporating diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder version, you can reduce the chili powder or omit it altogether.

Another great customization option is to experiment with different types of cheese. While cheddar is the traditional choice, you can also use mozzarella for a stretchier texture, or even a combination of cheeses like Monterey Jack, Parmesan, or Gouda to add complexity to the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Church Supper Spaghetti pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with a simple green salad, complete with a tangy vinaigrette, to balance out the richness of the casserole. Garlic bread or freshly baked rolls are also excellent choices to soak up the flavorful sauce. If you’re looking for a heartier meal, roasted vegetables or a side of mashed potatoes can complement the dish perfectly.

For dessert, a light and refreshing fruit salad or a classic chocolate cake would round out the meal nicely.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Church Supper Spaghetti is a classic dish that is perfect for large gatherings, offering a delicious and satisfying meal that will please a crowd. Its combination of ground beef, vegetables, pasta, and cheese creates a hearty and flavorful dish that can be customized to suit a variety of tastes. Whether you’re making it for a church dinner, family gathering, or any other special occasion, this recipe is sure to be a hit. With its ease of preparation, versatility, and great flavor, Church Supper Spaghetti is a dish that will be enjoyed by all and remembered long after the meal is over.