Jambolette
Jambolette is a hearty, comforting casserole combining seasoned ground beef, tender noodles, and savory tomato flavors, topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that appeal to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger, diced onion, and green pepper in a skillet.
- Add the can of tomato soup, water, and catsup to the cooked meat and vegetables.
- Mix in cooked noodles and transfer everything to a casserole dish.
- Cover the casserole with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding spices like garlic powder or paprika to the meat mixture. If you want a healthier version, substitute ground turkey for the hamburger. You can also use whole wheat noodles or add some chopped spinach for extra nutrition. If you prefer a creamier texture, try mixing in a bit of cream cheese before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jambolette with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. This dish pairs beautifully with Baked Beans (Easy) for a hearty family dinner. For a refreshing drink, consider serving iced tea or lemonade alongside. Leftovers also make for a great lunch the next day!
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes, covering it with foil to prevent over-browning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jambolette contains roughly 661 calories, with 9g protein, 134g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (67% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 870mg per serving (38% 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 Jambolette up to the baking step and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for the tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup on hand, you can use a can of diced tomatoes mixed with a tablespoon of tomato paste. This will give you a similar flavor and consistency while adding a bit more texture to the dish.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, corn, or even some chopped carrots. Just make sure to sauté them with the onions and green pepper to ensure they cook evenly and blend well with the flavors.
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).