Casserole Italiano
Casserole Italiano is a comforting dish that combines the hearty flavors of ground beef, rich tomato soup, and tender noodles, all topped with melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish is easy to prepare and satisfies cravings for Italian-inspired comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with chopped onion and seasonings.
- Combine beef mixture in a 1 1/2-quart casserole with tomato soup, water, and cooked wide noodles.
- Place cheese around the edges of the casserole.
- Bake at 350° for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or use a plant-based meat alternative. If you prefer a bit more flavor, add minced garlic or diced bell peppers to the beef mixture. You can also use any type of cheese you have on hand, such as mozzarella or cheddar, to enhance the dish. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Serving Suggestions
This Casserole Italiano pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You might also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a side of steamed broccoli to balance the flavors. For a more traditional Italian meal, consider incorporating a light Italian dressing on your salad or serving with a glass of red wine.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for a few minutes until warm. Ensure it’s heated evenly before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Casserole Italiano contains roughly 777 calories, with 20g protein, 145g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (186% of the Daily Value), and calcium (144% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2192mg per serving (95% 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 Casserole Italiano ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble all the ingredients and cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to eat, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup, crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce can be used as substitutes. You could also blend canned tomatoes with some herbs for a homemade tomato base. This adjustment will still provide a rich flavor while ensuring the casserole remains moist.
Can I add more vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Chopped zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms can be great additions. Simply sauté the vegetables with the beef and onion at the beginning. Adding vegetables not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds texture and flavor to the dish.
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).