Crusty Beef And Cheese Casserole
A hearty crusty beef and cheese casserole featuring savory ground beef, cheesy layers, and rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet.
- Brown diced onion and canned mushrooms.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Combine Ragu spaghetti sauce, tomato sauce, salt, garlic powder, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese in a bowl.
- Add drained cooked beef to the sauce mixture and simmer for a few minutes.
- Cook egg noodles according to package instructions; drain.
- In a 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan, layer half of the cooked noodles, half of the beef mixture, and half of the grated Cheddar cheese.
- Repeat layers with remaining noodles, beef mixture, and Cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour until the top is browned and crusty.
- Serve hot, yielding approximately 8 to 10 servings.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful dish, consider adding a tablespoon of Italian seasoning or fresh herbs such as basil or oregano to the beef mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef. Additionally, using whole wheat egg noodles can add extra fiber. This casserole can also be customized with your choice of vegetables, similar to the mix used in Handy Pizza Sandwiches.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside steamed vegetables for a balanced plate. For an extra touch, sprinkle some additional Parmesan cheese on top before serving. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks and is sure to become a favorite among beef recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire casserole with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help prevent it from drying out during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crusty Beef And Cheese Casserole contains roughly 606 calories, with 36g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (107% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (78% of the Daily Value), and protein (73% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1749mg per serving (76% 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 cheese in this casserole?
Yes, you can certainly experiment with different cheeses! Mozzarella or Monterey Jack would provide a great melt, while a mix of cheeses can add depth of flavor. Just keep in mind that sharper cheeses like Gruyère will alter the taste slightly, enhancing the overall richness of the dish.
How can I make this casserole ahead of time?
To prepare this casserole ahead of time, assemble it completely but do not bake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This ensures even cooking.
Is it possible to freeze the casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. After assembling, cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated 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).