Gary'S Favorite
A hearty and comforting dish, Gary's Favorite combines ground beef and sweet sausage with creamy cheddar and tomato soups, all baked to perfection. The wide noodles add a delightful texture, making this meal perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef, sweet sausage, and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Add cheddar cheese soup, tomato soup, water, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Cook wide noodles according to package instructions and add to the meat mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to a large, buttered baking dish.
- Bake at 350° for 45 minutes or until the top is brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of Italian herbs or spices in the meat mixture. If you want a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you can't find Cheddar cheese soup, a homemade cheese sauce will work well as a replacement, lending a creamy texture to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Texas Chili for an exciting dinner spread. For a touch of freshness, consider adding steamed vegetables on the side. Top with shredded cheese or fresh herbs before serving to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gary'S Favorite contains roughly 343 calories, with 20g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1723mg per serving (75% 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 meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can customize the meat to your preference. Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives for a lighter version. You could also use venison or pork for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of meat used.
What can I do if I don't have wide noodles?
If wide noodles aren't available, you can substitute with any pasta shape you have on hand, such as elbow macaroni or penne. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as different pasta shapes may require different cooking times.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef and sausage with a plant-based meat alternative or a mix of lentils and mushrooms for texture. Use vegetable broth instead of water and opt for a vegetarian cheese soup or a homemade cheese sauce for a creamy finish.
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).