Big Dinner Casserole
A hearty casserole featuring tender noodles, savory hamburger, and flavorful vegetables, topped with tomato soup and soy sauce for a comforting, family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Arrange cooked noodles in a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Cook the hamburger, onions, celery, and green pepper in oil until the onions are golden.
- Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and add soy sauce and tomato soup.
- Heat the mixture to boiling.
- Pour the meat and vegetable mixture over the noodles in the casserole dish.
- Bake in a moderate oven at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding mushrooms or swapping out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can use a meat substitute or add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Don't hesitate to adjust the seasoning to your taste, especially with the soy sauce, which can enhance the umami flavor of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You might also serve it alongside crusty bread or garlic bread for a comforting dinner. For an added kick, consider offering a side of Cheese And Bacon Dip to complement the flavors of the casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual portions until warm. For longer storage, consider freezing in portions for up to 3 months, then thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Big Dinner Casserole contains roughly 589 calories, with 3g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (86% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2573mg per serving (112% 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 whole wheat noodles instead of regular noodles?
Yes, whole wheat noodles can be used as a healthier alternative. They will provide a nuttier flavor and more fiber, though the cooking time may vary slightly, so check the package instructions to ensure they are cooked properly before adding them to the casserole.
Is there a way to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or serving guests.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like carrots, peas, or even spinach. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure all the vegetables are tender and well incorporated into the casserole.
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).