Carolyn'S Casserole
A hearty casserole with savory ground beef, melted cheeses, and rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the fettuccine noodles and drain.
- Brown the ground round beef and pour off excess fat. Stir in the tomato sauce.
- Combine the meat mixture with the cooked noodles.
- Top the casserole with grated sharp Cheddar cheese and Mozzarella cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a can of cream of mushroom soup to the meat mixture. You can substitute the ground round with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you prefer a kick, add some red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce. To enhance flavor, sauté onions and garlic before browning the meat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Carolyn's Casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A slice of garlic bread pairs beautifully with this dish, making it a comforting dinner option. For a fun twist, serve with a side of Aunt Kat's Squash And Matoes for a vibrant plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power, covered, for about 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carolyn'S Casserole contains roughly 1267 calories, with 100g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (200% of the Daily Value), calcium (100% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2999mg per serving (130% 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 this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add about 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of fettuccine?
If you're out of fettuccine, any pasta shape will work, such as penne or rotini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose. For a lighter option, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! To freeze, cool the casserole completely, then cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until warmed through.
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).