Italian Hot Dish
Italian Hot Dish is a comforting casserole blending savory ground beef, aromatic garlic and oregano, creamy tomato soup, and tender noodles topped with melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners, it offers hearty flavors in a simple, baked dish that appeals to all ages and pairs well with a fresh salad or garlic bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger, chopped onion, and garlic or garlic salt substitute together in a skillet.
- In a two-quart baking dish, combine the cooked wide noodles, tomato soup, and water.
- Stir in the browned meat and onion mixture into the noodle mixture.
- Scatter the shredded cheese evenly on top.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 30 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding Italian sausage along with the hamburger. You can also substitute the tomato soup with marinara sauce for added depth. If you prefer a vegetarian version, swap the hamburger for lentils or a meat substitute. Experiment with herbs like basil or thyme to customize the taste further. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Italian Hot Dish with a side of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. It also pairs nicely with garlic knots or a slice of Ceasario'S Homemade Pizza Bread for an Italian-themed dinner. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a side of steamed broccoli.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Hot Dish contains roughly 765 calories, with 29g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (181% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2448mg per serving (106% 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 dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge before baking. Just cover the baking dish tightly with foil. When you're ready to serve, bake it directly from the refrigerator, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I freeze this Italian Hot Dish?
For best results, allow it to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
What kind of cheese can I use?
You can use any cheese you prefer! Cheddar is great for a sharp flavor, while mozzarella would provide a nice melt. For a gourmet touch, consider using a blend of cheeses like provolone and parmesan. Just ensure the cheese is shredded for even melting and distribution over the dish.
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).