Easy Cheese 'N Noodle Casserole
Hearty tomato and noodle bake with savory Parmesan, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that satisfies comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (moderate).
- Grease an 8 x 8 x 2½-inch baking dish and spread the noodles evenly.
- In a bowl, combine the tomatoes with juice, onion powder, salt, oregano, water, and red wine.
- Pour the tomato mixture over the noodles.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake for 45 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest briefly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a sturdy noodle like egg noodles or rotini that can hold up to the sauce. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider substituting the red wine with a splash of balsamic vinegar. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or cheddar, instead of Parmesan for a different taste. This casserole is a versatile dish, much like American recipes that utilize pantry staples.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread or a slice of Stovepipe Bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a heartier option, you can add cooked ground beef or turkey to the mixture before baking.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Cheese 'N Noodle Casserole contains roughly 190 calories, with 6g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (106% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (79% of the Daily Value), and calcium (64% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1832mg per serving (80% 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 gluten-free noodles in this recipe?
Yes, gluten-free noodles can be used as a substitute. Just be sure to check the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta may cook differently. Follow the package instructions for best results, and keep an eye on the casserole to ensure it's baked until bubbly.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I add to make this dish more filling?
For extra heartiness, consider incorporating cooked vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also mix in some protein such as shredded chicken or cooked sausage to make it even more satisfying.
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).