Mom'S Beef-Noodle Casserole
Creamy beef and noodle casserole combines savory ground beef, tender noodles, and melted cheese, making it a comforting, family-friendly dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the chopped onion in a skillet with margarine.
- Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned.
- Cook the noodles in boiling, salted water until tender; drain.
- Cook the chopped celery in salted water; drain.
- Mix the cooked onion, meat mixture, celery, and noodles with the undiluted tomato soup.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow baking dish or casserole.
- Sprinkle grated cheese over the top.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 30 to 40 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture before baking. If you're out of margarine, butter works well as a substitute. You can also swap the ground beef for turkey or a meat alternative for a lighter dish. Feel free to include other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to enhance flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This beef-noodle casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Serve with crusty bread to soak up any sauce. For a comforting twist, consider accompanying it with applesauce for a touch of sweetness, reminiscent of classic American recipes. A light dessert, like fruit salad, would round out the meal nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or place it back in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring the cheese melts again for that delicious gooey texture. This casserole also freezes well; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Beef-Noodle Casserole contains roughly 515 calories, with 11g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 748mg per serving (33% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What type of noodles work best in this recipe?
Egg noodles are traditionally used in this dish due to their texture and ability to hold the sauce well. However, you can also use rotini or penne for a fun twist. Just be sure to cook them al dente, as they will continue to cook while baking in the casserole.
Can I add other ingredients to customize this casserole?
Definitely! This recipe is versatile; you can incorporate veggies like spinach or peas for added nutrition. You may also want to add spices such as garlic powder, Italian seasoning, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce for enhanced flavor. Experimenting can lead to a delightful twist on this classic 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).