Benghetti
A hearty, cheesy casserole combining ground beef, noodles, corn, and tomato soup, baked to perfection with melted Cheddar—comfort food ideal for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef; drain all but 1 tablespoon of fat.
- Cook onion in the beef fat until translucent.
- Combine cooked noodles, drained corn, tomato soup, basil, garlic powder, and beef with onion in a baking dish.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 35 minutes.
- Top with grated Cheddar cheese.
- Return to oven for an additional 5 minutes or until cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey instead of beef. You can also substitute the tomato soup with homemade tomato sauce for a fresher taste. Add some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked noodles to speed up the process. This dish is perfect for a weeknight meal, especially for a 'meat and potatoes' crowd.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Benghetti with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Macaroni And Beef Skillet Dinner if you're looking for more beef recipes. For a touch of freshness, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the Benghetti in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Benghetti contains roughly 832 calories, with 13g protein, 156g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (46% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 582mg per serving (25% 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 make Benghetti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time by assembling the ingredients in the baking dish and covering it with plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of Cheddar cheese?
If you're not a fan of Cheddar cheese, consider using mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor. You can also try a blend of cheeses for added complexity. Just ensure that the cheese you choose melts well for the best texture.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option. Swap the chicken stock for vegetable broth and use a vegan cheese on top for a completely meat-free dish that still has great flavor.
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).