Italiano Casserole
A comforting Italian casserole that blends savory ground beef, aromatic oregano, and creamy tomato soup with wide noodles, topped with melty cheese for a family‑friendly dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown 1 lb. ground hamburger, 1/3 cup chopped onion, garlic salt, oregano, and 1/2 tsp salt in a skillet.
- Drain excess fat.
- Combine the browned mixture with 1 can tomato soup, 1/3 cup water, and 2 cups cooked wide noodles in a 1 1/2‑quart casserole dish.
- Top with 1 cup shredded cheese.
- Cover and bake for 20 minutes at 350°F, then uncover and bake an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using Italian sausage instead of ground hamburger. You can also mix in some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a bit of sour cream or cream cheese before baking. Adjust the garlic salt according to your taste; fresh garlic can be a great substitute for a more robust flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Italiano Casserole with a fresh side salad or garlic bread to complement the flavors. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top just before serving adds a nice pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with other Italian recipes, making it a versatile option for family dinners or gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and cover, heating in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italiano Casserole contains roughly 655 calories, with 27g protein, 109g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (178% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2444mg 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 use a different type of pasta for this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute wide noodles with penne, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta if preferred. Just ensure the pasta is cooked al dente, as it will continue to cook during baking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven straight from the fridge.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños with the meat mixture. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of regular cheese for an extra kick.
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).