Meat Concern
A hearty baked noodle casserole with savory ground beef, vegetables, and a creamy tomato sauce, topped with cheese for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put cream-style corn and canned tomatoes in a kettle and cook with salt and 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Boil the noodles, then wash and drain them.
- Melt the remaining tablespoon of butter in a skillet and sauté chopped onions, green pepper, and mushrooms slowly until the onion is clear.
- Add chopped celery, ground beef, and pepper; cook until well done.
- Add the cooked meat and vegetables to the corn, tomatoes, and tomato soup mixture. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Add the cooked noodles to the mixture and simmer everything together for 30 minutes.
- Let the casserole stand in the refrigerator overnight if possible.
- One hour before serving, transfer the mixture to a buttered baking dish.
- Dot generously with butter and grated cheese, then bake at 325°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding garlic or Italian seasoning to the meat mixture. You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter option or use gluten-free noodles if needed. If you want more vegetables, try adding spinach or zucchini. This dish can be customized with different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables. This recipe is great for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Concern contains roughly 1171 calories, with 6g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 121g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1313mg per serving (57% 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 in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative for a vegetarian version. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly based on the meat you choose to ensure it is cooked through.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the meat mixture. You can also use spicy sausage instead of ground beef for a flavorful twist.
Is it necessary to refrigerate overnight?
While it's not strictly necessary, refrigerating the casserole overnight allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste. If you're short on time, you can bake it right away, but letting it sit will improve the dish.
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).