Casserole Italiana
A hearty Italian casserole combining ground beef, noodles, and tomato flavors, topped with cheese. Perfect for family dinners and comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or more.
- After 20 minutes of baking, place shredded cheese around the edge of the casserole.
- If the casserole seems dry, add tomato juice before continuing to bake.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding Italian sausage or using a mix of ground meats. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground chuck with a plant-based meat alternative. Fresh herbs can enhance the taste; try adding basil or parsley. When selecting cheese, a combination of mozzarella and provolone works well. For a creamier texture, incorporate a dollop of sour cream into the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with a side of Mozzarella And Basil Salad to lighten the meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving crusty bread or a simple green salad alongside. This dish is also delicious with a glass of red wine to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, for 2-3 minutes on high power, checking frequently.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Casserole Italiana contains roughly 796 calories, with 33g protein, 153g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (187% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 52g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 for this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute the wide noodles with other pasta shapes like penne or rotini. Just make sure to cook them until al dente, as they will continue to cook while baking in the casserole.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and ensure that the tomato soup is certified gluten-free. You can also check for gluten-free alternatives for the shredded cheese to keep the dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely.
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).