Italian Slop
A hearty, cheesy casserole combining Italian sausage, ground beef, vegetables, and melted cheeses over broken lasagna noodles, perfect for satisfying family dinners with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger, diced onion, and diced green pepper; drain the fat.
- Add sliced Polish sausage and spaghetti sauce; stir to combine.
- Add cooked broken lasagna noodles; stir gently.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Combine shredded mozzarella and Cheddar cheeses as desired.
- Sprinkle the cheeses on top of the casserole.
- Cover the casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding Italian seasoning or garlic to the meat mixture. If you prefer a meatless version, substitute the hamburger and sausage with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty texture. You can also use store-bought marinara sauce instead of spaghetti sauce to save time. For a different cheese profile, try adding ricotta along with mozzarella for creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
This Italian Slop pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a baked potato. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top before serving can add a fresh touch. This dish is perfect for gatherings or potlucks, satisfying even the pickiest eaters.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Slop contains roughly 392 calories, with 19g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 786mg per serving (34% 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 different types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the hamburger for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter dish. You can also replace the Polish sausage with any smoked sausage or even a vegetarian sausage for a meatless option.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of lasagna noodles?
If you don't have lasagna noodles, you can substitute with any pasta shape you have on hand, like penne or rotini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type to ensure it’s properly al dente before mixing it into the casserole.
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).