Franks And Cheese Casserole
A creamy, cheesy casserole featuring tender noodles, savory wieners, and melted cheese, perfect for a comforting family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook noodles until tender and drain.
- Simmer evaporated milk and salt over low heat just below boiling point.
- Add grated cheese to the milk mixture and stir until melted and smooth.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked noodles and sliced wieners in a buttered 2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using smoked or spicy wieners instead of regular ones. You can substitute half of the cheese with a lower-fat option or even a dairy-free cheese to make this a lighter dish. If you're short on time, pre-cooked noodles can save you some effort. Make sure to stir the cheese sauce continuously to prevent it from clumping.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You could also serve it alongside some crusty bread to soak up the cheesy goodness. For a fun twist, consider serving it with a side of baked beans or a fruit salad for a contrast of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but be careful not to overheat as it may dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Franks And Cheese Casserole contains roughly 557 calories, with 5g protein, 117g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (32% of the Daily Value) and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1389mg per serving (60% 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 different types of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! You can mix and match your favorite cheeses. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of blue cheese can add unique flavors. Just ensure that the total amount remains roughly the same, around 2 cups, for the best texture.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole can be prepared in advance. Assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's going in the oven cold.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe dish. When ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
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).