Beefy Noodle Cheese Bake
Beefy Noodle Cheese Bake is a comforting casserole that combines savory ground beef, tender noodles, and a creamy cheese sauce, all baked to perfection. The blend of green peppers and onions adds a delightful crunch, making it an ideal dish for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a frying pan, put oil, green pepper, onion, and ground beef. Cook until beef is browned.
- Drain off all grease and rinse under hot water.
- Put back into the pan and add soup, oleo, milk, and cheese. Simmer on low for 15 minutes.
- Cook and drain noodles.
- In a greased casserole dish, layer noodles and meat mixture until used up.
- Top with cheese.
- Bake at 350° for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage. You can substitute the cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom for a different taste. If you're short on time, pre-cooked noodles can be used. For a healthier twist, incorporate some spinach or zucchini into the meat mixture. This dish also works well with a blend of cheeses for extra creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
This Beefy Noodle Cheese Bake pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside garlic bread or a side of Memphis Spicy Baked Beans. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil on top before serving can add a pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beefy Noodle Cheese Bake contains roughly 1256 calories, with 12g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 106g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value) and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 716mg per serving (31% 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 meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If using ground turkey, consider adding more seasoning to enhance the flavor, as it is milder than beef.
What type of cheese works best for this dish?
While the recipe calls for grated cheese, you can use any melty cheese you prefer, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a kick. Mixing different cheeses can also add depth to the flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
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).