Mazetti(Very Good Ground Beef Casserole)
A hearty ground beef casserole featuring creamy mushroom and tomato soups, seasoned with garlic salt and chili powder, topped with melted Cheddar cheese—perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion together in a skillet.
- Add the cream of mushroom soup and tomato soup to the beef mixture.
- Stir in cooked noodles, garlic salt, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with grated Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the beef mixture. If you want a spicier twist, add diced jalapeños or more chili powder. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if desired. Using whole wheat noodles can add more fiber, making this dish healthier. Ensure the noodles are cooked al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious casserole with a side salad for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or cornbread pairs wonderfully to soak up the rich sauces. For a complete dinner, consider serving with steamed vegetables or a light coleslaw. This dish also makes a great option for potlucks or family gatherings, offering a hearty choice among American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mazetti(Very Good Ground Beef Casserole) contains roughly 732 calories, with 4g protein, 164g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (37% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1032mg per serving (45% 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 use a different type of meat for this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. This will give the dish a lighter flavor while still being hearty. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so ensure the meat is fully cooked before adding the soups and noodles.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this casserole vegetarian, replace the ground beef with a meat substitute such as textured vegetable protein or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of soups that contain meat. Additionally, you can add extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach to enhance the nutritional value.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Bake from frozen, adding extra time to ensure it's heated through. If freezing leftovers, cool completely first and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
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).