Manaroni
A hearty baked noodle casserole featuring ground beef, creamy mushroom and tomato soups, topped with melted mozzarella—perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with chopped onion and green pepper.
- Meanwhile, cook egg noodles according to package instructions.
- Drain the cooked noodles.
- In a 13 x 9-inch pan, combine the cooked noodles, browned ground beef mixture, cream of mushroom soup, and tomato soup.
- Mix everything well to combine.
- Top the mixture with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or some sour cream to the mixture before baking. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter dish. If you prefer, use fresh mushrooms instead of cream of mushroom soup for a healthier twist. For extra flavor, add spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Manaroni hot from the oven, garnished with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. This dish can also be a hearty main course for family gatherings or potlucks, similar to a comforting Zippy Macaroni Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick meal, but be sure to cover the dish to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Manaroni contains roughly 435 calories, with 16g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 542mg per serving (24% 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 Manaroni a day in advance. Just assemble all the ingredients in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of egg noodles?
If you're looking for a gluten-free option, consider using gluten-free pasta or even spiralized vegetables like zucchini or squash. For a different texture, you could also try using penne or rotini pasta, which can hold onto the sauce and ingredients well, providing a delightful bite.
Can I freeze Manaroni?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the dish cool completely before covering it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven until hot and bubbly.
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).