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

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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.