High Protein Spaghetti Casserole Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a meal that’s comforting, hearty, and packed with muscle-loving ingredients, look no further than this High Protein Spaghetti Casserole. This dish takes classic spaghetti to a whole new level by layering al dente noodles with a rich, savory beef and tomato sauce, all folded with creamy cheeses and baked to bubbling, golden perfection. It’s a total crowd-pleaser that delivers on flavor and nutrition in every forkful, making it perfect for easy weeknight dinners or meal prep that keeps you energized throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This High Protein Spaghetti Casserole might seem like a fancy dish, but its beauty lies in simple, wholesome ingredients that work in perfect harmony. Each component not only brings texture and color but also builds the robust flavors that make this casserole truly memorable.

• 12 oz spaghetti noodles (dry): Cooked al dente, they provide the comforting base for this hearty casserole.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the beef beautifully.
• 1 lb lean ground beef: The main protein source delivering a juicy and meaty flavor.
• 2 15 oz cans tomato sauce: Contributes a smooth, tangy backdrop to the sauce.
• 1 15 oz can crushed tomatoes: Adds texture and freshness for that perfect tomato balance.
• 1 tbsp cornstarch: Thickens the sauce for a luscious consistency.
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning: Brings a fragrant mix of herbs that lift the overall flavor.
• 1 tbsp dried basil: Infuses subtle herbaceous notes throughout the casserole.
• 2 tsp garlic powder: Packs a punch of savory aroma without overpowering.
• 1 tsp onion powder: Adds gentle sweetness and depth.
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Introduces a tangy umami boost to the meat sauce.
• 1 tsp salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors seamlessly.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds just the right touch of spice.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded, low fat, divided): Melts beautifully for gooey, cheesy goodness.
• 1 cup cream cheese (low fat, softened): Creates a silky smooth texture and subtle tang.
• 1 cup cottage cheese (low-fat): Adds creaminess while boosting protein content.
• Fresh basil (chopped): Perfect for garnishing, offering fresh herbal brightness.

How to Make High Protein Spaghetti Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F — this ensures it’s perfectly hot for baking the casserole later. Spray a 13″x9″ casserole dish with oil to prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze.

Step 2: Cook Spaghetti and Brown Beef

Boil your spaghetti according to package directions until just al dente — neither mushy nor raw, because you’ll bake it later. While those noodles cook, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and add your ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until beautifully browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that’s a promise of what’s to come.

Step 3: Make the Rich Tomato Beef Sauce

While beef is sizzling, mix the tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, cornstarch, Italian seasoning, dried basil, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Pour this flavorful mix over browned beef, stir well, lower the heat, and let it all simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes. This slow cooking reduces excess water, concentrates the flavors, and creates a hearty, thick sauce that clings to every strand of spaghetti.

Step 4: Combine Spaghetti with Sauce

Take two cups of your beef and tomato mixture and add it into the bowl with the drained spaghetti. Toss everything until the noodles are completely coated, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Cheese Mixture

In a small bowl, blend half a cup of shredded mozzarella, cream cheese, and cottage cheese. This luscious blend brings luxurious creaminess that balances the savory meat sauce perfectly and adds extra protein without heaviness.

Step 6: Layer and Bake Your High Protein Spaghetti Casserole

Spread half of the remaining beef mixture on the bottom of your prepared casserole dish. Layer half of the spaghetti mixture on top, then evenly spread the cheese mixture over that. Follow with the rest of the spaghetti and top everything with the leftover beef mixture. Finish by sprinkling the last half cup of mozzarella on top. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake another 5 minutes until the cheese bubbles and turns a gorgeous golden brown. Garnish with fresh chopped basil before serving for a pop of color and herbal freshness.

How to Serve High Protein Spaghetti Casserole

Garnishes

Fresh basil sprinkled atop this casserole isn’t just for looks — it offers herbal brightness that cuts through the richness, adding a delightful aroma and a fresh taste that makes each bite even better.

Side Dishes

This casserole stands well on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, think fresh green salads or roasted veggies. A crisp Caesar salad or garlic roasted asparagus complements the creamy, cheesy texture perfectly, balancing indulgence with a bit of crunch and earthiness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special dinner, serve the casserole in individual ramekins sprinkled with finely chopped fresh basil or a little cracked black pepper. You can also add a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who like a mild kick. Make it fun by pairing it with a crusty garlic breadstick for scooping!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your casserole cool completely before transferring leftovers into an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it stays fresh and delicious for up to four days, giving you a quick, nutritious meal at your fingertips.

Freezing

This High Protein Spaghetti Casserole freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap the whole dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It will keep well for up to three months, perfect for meal prepping or saving a batch for busy days.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave, covered loosely to maintain moisture, or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and bubbly. Adding a small splash of water before reheating helps keep the pasta tender.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully as a leaner alternative, keeping your High Protein Spaghetti Casserole light but still packed with protein and flavor.

Is this casserole suitable for meal prepping?

Definitely. It reheats well and maintains its delicious taste and texture, making it a fantastic option for prepping multiple meals ahead.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can swap cream cheese with ricotta or mascarpone for a similar creamy texture, though the flavor might be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Yes! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach tossed into the sauce during simmering add extra nutrients and flavors to make it even more wholesome.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free spaghetti noodles, and confirm your tomato products and seasonings are gluten-free to enjoy this casserole without worry.

Final Thoughts

This High Protein Spaghetti Casserole is a warm, inviting dish that combines cozy comfort food vibes with serious nutritional power. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a staple in the kitchen. Share it with family or friends, or savor it yourself — either way, you’re in for a real treat that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Trust me, this casserole is destined to become one of your favorites!

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