La Gaza
A hearty and flavorful beef and noodle casserole with spicy chili and melted cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped green pepper in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Add tomato sauce, drained corn, chili powder, and Tabasco sauce to the skillet; simmer for 30 minutes.
- Prepare wide egg noodles according to package instructions; drain.
- Combine cooked noodles with the beef mixture and transfer to a 13 x 9-inch Pyrex dish.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese evenly on top of the mixture.
- Place in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven just until the cheese melts.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating a teaspoon of garlic powder or some diced tomatoes. If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of Tabasco sauce or add jalapeños. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or a meat substitute instead of ground beef.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is great on its own, but you could serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Pair it with a refreshing beverage or a light red wine for a delightful experience. For a twist, consider serving it alongside a simple vegetable stir-fry to add color and nutrition.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed, ensuring the cheese doesn’t overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of La Gaza contains roughly 756 calories, with 32g protein, 127g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (344% of the Daily Value), protein (64% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1101mg per serving (48% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and noodles ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, combine them, top with cheese, and bake until heated through. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or meal prep.
What can I use instead of egg noodles?
If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles for a healthier twist. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of noodles you choose to use.
How can I make this dish more creamy?
To add creaminess, stir in a cup of sour cream or cream cheese into the beef mixture before combining with the noodles. This will create a richer taste and texture, making it even more comforting.
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).