If you are looking for a heartwarming and crowd-pleasing dish, this Chili Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is exactly what your dinner table needs. Combining the comforting textures of tender vermicelli pasta and hearty ground beef with the zesty flavors of chili and spices, this casserole is a deliciously cheesy and satisfying meal that brings warmth to any family gathering. It’s incredibly easy to prepare yet packed with layers of flavor that make it a fast favorite for busy weeknights or casual weekends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Chili Spaghetti Casserole Recipe plays an essential role, from the perfectly cooked pasta giving structure, to the savory ground beef adding richness, and the chili infusing bold, spicy notes. Together, these simple items come alive in a dish that’s as colorful as it is flavorful.
- 16-oz package vermicelli pasta: Choose vermicelli for its thin strands that soak up flavors beautifully without getting mushy.
- 1½ lbs lean ground beef: Lean beef ensures a hearty filling without excess grease, balancing health and taste.
- 2 Tbsp dried minced onion flakes: These add a subtle onion flavor that blends in without overpowering the dish.
- 2 tsp chili powder: The spice heart of the casserole, bringing warmth and a mild kick.
- ¼ tsp garlic powder: A small touch of garlic that enhances savory notes.
- 1 (15-oz) can chili without beans: Adds a rich, saucy base packed with chili flavor without the texture of beans.
- 1 (14.5-oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained): Provides moisture, acidity, and a fresh tomato burst.
- 1 (8-oz) container sour cream: This adds creamy richness and a slight tang that balances the spices beautifully.
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: The melty, golden topping that pulls the whole dish together with its sharp flavor.
- 1 (2.8-oz) can French fried onions: Crunchy topping that contrasts delightfully with the creamy casserole beneath.
How to Make Chili Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Get your oven and pan ready
Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This prep ensures the casserole will cook evenly and won’t stick, making for an easy cleanup later.
Step 2: Cook the pasta perfectly
Boil the vermicelli pasta according to the package directions until it’s tender but still has a slight bite. Drain it well to avoid sogginess, then set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Step 3: Brown the beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy, which helps balance the rich flavors of the dish.
Step 4: Combine the hearty filling
In a large bowl, toss together the cooked beef, dried minced onion flakes, chili powder, garlic powder, canned chili without beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, sour cream, and the cooked pasta. Mixing all these elements creates a luscious and flavorful base for your casserole.
Step 5: Assemble and top
Transfer the beef and pasta mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, then finish with a generous layer of French fried onions. These toppings will become golden and crunchy during baking.
Step 6: Bake to bubbly perfection
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes until it’s bubbly and hot through. The cheese should be melted and golden, and the onions crisp, signaling that your Chili Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Chili Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions or a dollop of sour cream on top adds a fresh bite and creaminess that complements the warm, cheesy casserole wonderfully. A handful of sliced jalapeños can bring a playful heat if you like a bit more spice.
Side Dishes
Serve this casserole with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette, or pair it with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to balance the richness. A slice of crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any extra cheesy, chili goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this Chili Spaghetti Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets. This presentation feels special and perfect for portion control when entertaining. You can also add a layer of sliced olives or chopped bell peppers before baking for extra color and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It maintains its creamy texture and flavor well, making for an easy next-day meal or lunch.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. After baking, let it cool completely, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through and bubbly, usually about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, the microwave works well for single servings—just cover to avoid drying out.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or extra beans like black or kidney beans to keep it hearty. You might want to adjust the seasoning slightly for balance.
What pasta works best in this recipe?
Vermicelli is preferred because of its delicate texture, but you can substitute with thin spaghetti or angel hair pasta if needed.
Is this casserole spicy?
The chili powder gives it mild warmth, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. You can easily adjust the chili powder quantity or add jalapeños if you prefer a bolder heat.
Can I prepare parts of the casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the pasta and brown the beef a day ahead, then mix everything and assemble just before baking. This saves time on busy days.
What’s the best way to prevent the French fried onions from burning?
Adding them on top just before baking ensures they cook to a perfect golden brown without burning. Avoid adding them too early when the oven is hot.
Final Thoughts
This Chili Spaghetti Casserole Recipe is one of those magical dishes that brings comfort, flavor, and ease to your table in one fabulous package. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting friends, or craving something cozy after a long day, give this recipe a try—you’re going to love how the simple ingredients come together to create something truly spectacular and satisfying.
Print
Chili Spaghetti Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chili Spaghetti Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish combining tender vermicelli pasta, lean ground beef, and a flavorful chili and tomato base. Topped with sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and crispy French fried onions, it’s baked to bubbly perfection, making it perfect for a family dinner or potluck.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 16 oz vermicelli pasta (uncooked)
Meat and Seasonings
- 1½ lbs lean ground beef
- 2 tbsp dried minced onion flakes
- 2 tsp chili powder
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
Canned Goods and Dairy
- 1 (15-oz) can chili without beans
- 1 (14.5-oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
- 1 (8-oz) container sour cream
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Toppings
- 1 (2.8-oz) can French fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking, and set it aside for later use.
- Cook the pasta: Prepare the vermicelli pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain well and set aside to keep warm.
- Cook the ground beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef until it is fully browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat to keep the dish leaner.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked beef along with dried minced onion flakes, chili powder, garlic powder, canned chili without beans, undrained diced tomatoes, sour cream, and the cooked pasta. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the flavors are well combined.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch baking pan. Spread it evenly, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Finish by adding a generous layer of French fried onions.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. Bake until the casserole is bubbly throughout and the toppings are golden and crispy. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add extra chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- You can substitute the lean ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- If you prefer a creamier casserole, consider stirring in a bit more sour cream before baking.
- French fried onions add a nice crunch on top, but you can substitute with crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs if desired.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
