Beef And Noodles Au Gratin(Weight Watchers)
A comforting baked dish combining seasoned ground beef, tender noodles, and a cheesy topping, perfect for family dinners and satisfying cravings with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Cook the broad noodles according to package instructions, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the lean ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef; cook until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Combine the cooked noodles with the beef mixture and transfer to a baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded low fat cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and ground turkey. You can substitute broad noodles with whole wheat pasta for added fiber. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a bit of low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt before baking. Adjust the spices to your taste; adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Beef And Noodles Au Gratin with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a light vinaigrette. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside some American recipes like Skilletburgers(Sloppy Joes) for a comforting dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef And Noodles Au Gratin(Weight Watchers) contains roughly 832 calories, with 30g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (183% of the Daily Value), calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (132% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 831mg per serving (36% 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 different types of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute the lean ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just ensure you adjust cooking times accordingly based on the meat used.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this Beef And Noodles Au Gratin gluten-free, simply replace the broad noodles with gluten-free pasta. Ensure that all other ingredients, particularly the canned tomatoes and any additional seasonings, are certified gluten-free.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes prior to baking to ensure even cooking.
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).