Goodle-Boodle
A hearty, cheesy meat and pasta casserole with rich flavors of onion soup, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni in boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In an electric frying pan, cook the ground beef or meat loaf mix until browned.
- Add the two cans of onion soup to the cooked meat and stir well.
- Sprinkle onion salt and garlic salt to taste in the meat mixture.
- Stir in 2 to 3 tablespoons of flour to thicken the mixture.
- Mix the cooked macaroni into the meat and soup mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or keep in the electric frying pan if suitable.
- Top with slices or squares of American and/or sharp cheese.
- Cover and cook until the cheese melts and the dish is heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the meat mixture. If you're out of onion soup, a combination of beef broth and sautéed onions can serve as a substitute. You can also swap elbow macaroni for any pasta shape you have on hand. For added flavor, try incorporating some spices like paprika or Italian seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Goodle-Boodle with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Audrey's Meatballs for a hearty dinner. For a fun twist, you can also serve it with garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally. If the dish seems dry, add a splash of broth or water before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Goodle-Boodle contains roughly 254 calories, with 11g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1019mg per serving (44% 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 meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian dish, try using a meat substitute or a mix of beans and lentils, adjusting the seasonings accordingly to enhance the flavor.
What can I do if I don't have onion soup?
If onion soup isn't available, you can create a quick alternative using beef broth, sautéed onions, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce to mimic the flavor. This will still provide a savory base for your dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the meat mixture. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before serving to give it an extra kick.
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).