Kitty'S Kasserole
Kitty's Kasserole is a hearty, cheesy baked pasta dish featuring seasoned ground beef, tender noodles, and a rich tomato flavor. Ideal for family dinners, it offers comforting flavors with melted cheese on top, making it a satisfying and versatile meal for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and minced onion in a skillet.
- Season the meat mixture to taste.
- Drain excess fat from the meat.
- While the meat is frying, boil the noodles until tender.
- Combine the cooked noodles, meat mixture, canned tomatoes, and tomato soup in a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Top the casserole with grated cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also substitute the canned tomatoes with fresh diced tomatoes if they're in season. To save time, use pre-cooked noodles or even frozen Barbecued Meatballs for a twist. Don't forget to season the meat well; spices like garlic powder or Italian herbs enhance the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or crusty bread. For an added touch, serve it with a side of green beans or corn for a colorful plate. A dollop of sour cream on top enhances the flavors and richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Kitty's Kasserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave portions for a quick meal, making sure to cover the dish to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kitty'S Kasserole contains roughly 336 calories, with 7g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (69% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 noodle?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute with any pasta you prefer, such as penne or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose, ensuring it's cooked al dente before mixing it with the casserole ingredients.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of Kitty's Kasserole, simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or cooked lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and ensure the cheese is vegetarian-friendly. This way, you can enjoy a hearty dish without the meat while still maintaining great flavor.
Can I freeze Kitty's Kasserole?
Yes, Kitty's Kasserole freezes well! To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until heated through.
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).