Jayne'S Hamburger Casserole
A hearty, flavorful casserole combining seasoned ground beef, tender noodles, and savory tomatoes, perfect for a comforting family meal with cheesy topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, and garlic until tender.
- Set aside the sautéed vegetables.
- Brown the ground chuck in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Return the cooked vegetables to the meat.
- Add Mexican-style stewed tomatoes, tomato sauce, red pepper, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture.
- Simmer on low heat while cooking the egg noodles.
- Drain the cooked noodles and add them to the sauce mixture.
- Transfer everything to a casserole dish and bake at 350°F for 50 minutes.
- Sprinkle with Cheddar cheese and melt before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken as a healthier alternative to ground chuck. You can also substitute the Mexican-style stewed tomatoes with diced tomatoes and add your own spices for a custom touch. If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the meat with mushrooms or lentils. Pairing this with a fresh salad or crusty bread can enhance the meal.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty on its own but can be complemented with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can add a nice touch. It also pairs beautifully with Caramel Ribbon Bars for dessert, creating a balanced meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jayne'S Hamburger Casserole contains roughly 337 calories, with 10g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1492mg per serving (65% 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 prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of egg noodles?
If you prefer a different type of pasta, feel free to substitute egg noodles with rotini or penne. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type to ensure everything is perfectly cooked.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
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).