Grandma'S Casserole Noodle Lasagna

Prep: 15 min Cook: 15 min Cuisine: American

A hearty noodle lasagna casserole featuring ground meat, tomatoes, and melty mozzarella, perfect for family dinners and comforting gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 1 green pepper, cut in 1-inch strips
  • 1.5 lb lean ground meat
  • 1 tsp Accent (or basil, oregano, and salt)
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 large can whole tomatoes
  • 15 oz can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup water
  • 12 oz package wide noodles
  • 8 oz shredded Mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Saute chopped onion and green pepper.
  2. Add ground meat, Accent, pepper, and sugar; cook until meat is browned.
  3. Add whole tomatoes, tomato sauce, and water; stir to combine.
  4. Simmer over low flame for 15 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For added flavor, consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for the lean ground meat. Fresh herbs such as basil or oregano can enhance the dish even further, and using crushed red pepper can add a nice kick. Make sure to cook the noodles al dente, as they will continue to soften while baking. Pairing this dish with a side of Dilled Apple And Potato Salad adds a refreshing contrast.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty casserole is perfect for family gatherings and can be served with a simple green salad or garlic bread on the side. For a complete meal, consider adding steamed vegetables or a light soup. It also pairs beautifully with Pumpkin Centerpiece Cake for dessert, making it a satisfying and comforting dinner option.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the casserole with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave portions for 2-3 minutes on high, stirring halfway through for even heating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Grandma'S Casserole Noodle Lasagna contains roughly 359 calories, with 30g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (144% of the Daily Value), protein (60% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. At about 359 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.

359 kcal 18% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 29.9g 60% DV
Total Fat 6.7g 9% DV
Carbs 50.2g 18% DV
Fiber 15.9g 57% DV
Sugar 11g 22% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 235.5mg 10% DV
Potassium 1889.5mg 40% DV
Cholesterol 2.4mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 170.4mcg 19% DV
Vitamin C 130mg 100% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 208.3mg 16% DV
Iron 9.2mg 51% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

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 make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply bake it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole either before baking or after it has been cooked. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?

If you want to substitute the mozzarella cheese, consider using ricotta for a creamier texture or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. Both options will complement the dish well while maintaining its delicious character.

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).

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