Homestyle Frank And Cheese Dinner
A creamy, cheesy pasta bake with tender frankfurters, perfect for comforting family dinners and appealing to cheese lovers and kids alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cook the egg noodles according to package directions and drain.
- In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat and cook chopped onion until tender.
- Stir in flour, salt, and dry mustard.
- Gradually blend in milk and Worcestershire sauce, stirring constantly.
- Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in 1 1/4 cups of shredded Cheddar cheese until melted.
- Add cooked noodles and cut frankfurters to the sauce and mix well.
- Pour mixture into a greased baking dish and sprinkle with remaining cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, you can substitute half-and-half for the milk. If you want more vegetables, consider adding steamed broccoli or peas. Using turkey or chicken frankfurters can lighten the dish. You can also mix in some spices like paprika for added flavor. This dish is versatile, so feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or even try it with the Nutritious Zucchini Cookies for dessert!
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For added crunch, serve with some toasted garlic bread or a side of Sunday Special Corn Bread. It also works well as a comforting weeknight dinner, satisfying both kids and adults alike.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed, covering with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Homestyle Frank And Cheese Dinner contains roughly 278 calories, with 10g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2609mg per serving (113% 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 gluten-free noodles in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the gluten-free noodles, as they may cook differently.
What can I use instead of Cheddar cheese?
You can substitute Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a blend of your favorite cheeses. For a lighter option, try using part-skim mozzarella to keep the dish creamy without being too heavy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
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).