Burger Noodle Bake
A hearty, comforting casserole combining seasoned ground beef, creamy tomato sauce, noodles, and a crispy topping, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef lightly in a skillet.
- Drain off the fat.
- Add chopped onion and cook until tender but not browned.
- Add tomato soup, cream cheese, sugar, salt, and Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture.
- Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the wide noodles in a separate pot until al dente.
- Drain the noodles and add them to the sauce, mixing well.
- Pour the combined mixture into a 11 1/2 x 7 1/2 x 1 1/2-inch casserole dish.
- Sprinkle with cornflake crumbs and dot with butter on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a full-fat cream cheese or even a flavored variety. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or use gluten-free noodles to make this dish gluten-free. Adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or Italian seasoning can enhance the flavor profile, similar to those found in other beef recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Burger Noodle Bake with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or garlic bread. For a fun twist, top with shredded cheese before baking, similar to what you might do with All American Chili. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or potluck.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, covering with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Burger Noodle Bake contains roughly 438 calories, with 7g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (16% of the Daily Value), and iron (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 986mg per serving (43% 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?
Yes, you can easily substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian version. Adjust the cooking time slightly if using alternative meats, as they may require different handling.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to cover it tightly. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I do if I don't have cornflake crumbs?
If you don't have cornflake crumbs, you can crush crackers or use breadcrumbs as a substitute. Alternatively, crushed potato chips can add a nice crunch. Just keep in mind that different substitutes may alter the flavor slightly.
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).