Casserole Of Noodles Italian Style
A hearty Italian-style noodle casserole featuring mushrooms, Parmesan, and fresh herbs, perfect for comforting family dinners or entertaining guests with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Bring 4 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot, add 2 teaspoons of salt.
- Add the medium noodles and cook until done, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Drain the cooked noodles.
- In a bowl, beat the eggs well and mix in the whipping cream, minced parsley, minced onion, Parmesan cheese, and sliced mushrooms.
- Combine the cooked noodles with the egg and cheese mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of whipping cream. You can also add cooked spinach or substitute the mushrooms with bell peppers for a different flavor profile. When cooking the noodles, slightly undercook them to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or ricotta, which can complement this dish well.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole warm, garnished with additional minced parsley for a fresh touch. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up any remaining sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Italian Spinach With Egg or a light tomato salad. This dish also makes an excellent side for grilled meats or seafood.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. This will help maintain its texture and prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Casserole Of Noodles Italian Style contains roughly 1448 calories, with 10g protein, 306g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (75% of the Daily Value), protein (21% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1459mg per serving (63% 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 a day in advance. Simply assemble it and cover it tightly with plastic wrap, then refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven, adjusting the baking time as needed.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can use Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a creamier texture. Nutritional yeast is an excellent dairy-free alternative that adds a cheesy flavor without the cheese.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! You can incorporate cooked chicken, ground beef, or even shrimp for added protein. Just mix it into the egg and cheese mixture before combining with the noodles. This will enhance the dish's heartiness and make it suitable for a more filling meal.
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).