Beefy Noodle Dinner
A hearty, cheesy beef and noodle casserole packed with savory tomato flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners and satisfying hungry appetites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with chopped onion and crushed garlic in a skillet.
- Drain well to remove excess fat.
- Stir in minced parsley, tomato sauce, water, salt, and pepper.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add wide egg noodles, cover, and cook for 15 to 20 minutes or until noodles are tender, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot with grated cheese melted on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating chopped bell peppers or mushrooms while browning the beef. If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Use vegetable broth instead of water for a richer taste, or try whole wheat noodles for a healthier twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Beefy Noodle Dinner pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For an extra kick, serve with garlic bread or crusty rolls. Top with your favorite grated cheese for added richness, and consider a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beefy Noodle Dinner contains roughly 659 calories, with 53g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (268% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (172% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2409mg per serving (105% 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 wide egg noodles with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini or penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta's instructions for optimal tenderness.
What can I add to make this dish more nutritious?
Adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or peas can enhance the nutritional value. You can stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking to ensure they remain vibrant and tender.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, this Beefy Noodle Dinner freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly before serving.
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).