1950 Canadian Noodle Bake
A comforting Canadian noodle bake featuring seasoned ground beef, tender pasta, melted cheddar, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Butter a 10-cup casserole dish and set aside.
- Cook the shell pasta according to the package directions; drain and set aside.
- Finely chop the onion.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef until no pink remains.
- Add the chopped onion to the beef and cook until softened.
- Mix the beef and onion together, stirring for about 6 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a bowl.
- Add the chopped or dried parsley, dried thyme, black pepper, salt, and tomato juice to the bowl.
- Add the cooked noodles and stir well to combine.
- Sprinkle grated Cheddar cheese and bread crumbs on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes until bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a can of cream of mushroom soup to the mixture. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked ground beef or leftover roast. Substitute the Cheddar cheese with mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Dried herbs can be replaced with fresh; just use three times the amount.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty noodle bake pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, such as a Diabetic Farmers Salad, to balance the meal. You can also serve it with garlic bread or steamed vegetables for added nutrition. A light red wine complements the dish well, enhancing the flavors of the beef and cheese.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, though the oven method helps retain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 1950 Canadian Noodle Bake contains roughly 943 calories, with 54g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (107% of the Daily Value), calcium (73% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2172mg per serving (94% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute shell pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also work as healthier alternatives.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner substitute for ground beef in this recipe. For a vegetarian option, consider using a mix of lentils or black beans to maintain the protein content while keeping the dish delicious.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the beef mixture. You could also use pepper jack cheese instead of Cheddar for an added kick. Adjust the seasonings to your taste for the perfect spice level.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).