Easy Supper Casserole
A comforting baked casserole featuring noodles, seasoned ground beef, and melted mozzarella cheese, perfect for a quick family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
- Add uncooked noodles to the dish.
- Brown the ground chuck and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Drain off any grease from the meat mixture.
- Spread the meat mixture over the noodles in the dish.
- Mix spaghetti sauce and water, then pour over the noodles and meat.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 40 minutes.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding frozen vegetables like peas or corn into the casserole for added nutrition. You can substitute the ground chuck with ground turkey for a lighter option, or use whole grain noodles for a healthier choice. If you like a bit of spice, add red pepper flakes to the meat mixture before layering.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal. For a heartier option, serve with garlic bread or a slice of cornbread. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top can enhance flavor when serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, cover with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Supper Casserole contains roughly 1148 calories, with 38g protein, 156g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (76% of the Daily Value), calcium (67% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1311mg per serving (57% 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?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well to achieve that gooey texture.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready to serve. If baking from cold, add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to vegetarian by omitting the ground chuck and adding cooked lentils or a meat substitute. Also, ensure the spaghetti sauce is meat-free to keep it entirely vegetarian.
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).