Italian Beef And Noodles
A hearty Italian-inspired casserole featuring savory ground beef, creamy cheese layers, and tender noodles, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, salt, sugar, pepper, canned tomatoes, and tomato sauce in a saucepan and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions and drain.
- Mix sour cream, cream cheese, and chopped green onions together in a bowl.
- Layer half of the meat mixture in a large casserole dish.
- Add half of the noodle mixture over the meat layer.
- Sprinkle half of the grated Cheddar cheese on top.
- Repeat layering with remaining meat, noodles, and cheese.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding Italian herbs like oregano or basil to the meat mixture. If you're short on time, pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken can be used instead of ground beef for a different twist. You can also substitute the egg noodles with other pasta types, such as penne or rotini, for a variation in texture.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving alongside a glass of red wine for an authentic Italian dining experience. For a lightened version, you can add steamed vegetables on the side, which complement the flavors beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out, then warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave in individual portions.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Beef And Noodles contains roughly 438 calories, with 21g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (60% of the Daily Value), protein (43% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1239mg per serving (54% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the layers ahead of time and assemble the casserole dish. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld, making it even tastier when baked.
Is it possible to freeze this dish?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you need a substitute for sour cream, plain Greek yogurt works great in this recipe, providing a similar tangy flavor and creaminess. Alternatively, you can use a mix of cream cheese and a splash of milk to achieve a similar consistency.
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).