Noodle Cheese Casserole
Creamy noodle cheese casserole combines tender noodles with savory mushroom soup and melted cheese for a comforting, family-friendly dish. Topped with crispy bread crumbs, it's perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings. Rich, cheesy, and satisfying, it appeals to all ages and pairs well with a simple salad.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the noodles according to the package instructions.
- Drain well and add the mushroom soup, evaporated milk, and sautéed mushrooms if using.
- Spread half of the noodle mixture in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle with a layer of shredded cheese.
- Spread the remaining noodles over the cheese layer.
- Sprinkle again with shredded cheese and top with buttered bread crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F until bubbly and slightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the noodle mixture. If you prefer a different flavor, try swapping out the Cheddar or American cheese for Gruyère or a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan. You can also add cooked chicken or vegetables to enhance the dish, making it a heartier meal. This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Noodle Cheese Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also goes well with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side. For a comforting touch, serve with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, where it can be a crowd-pleaser alongside other comforting favorites.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You may want to cover it with foil to prevent excessive browning. For a quick option, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Noodle Cheese Casserole contains roughly 677 calories, with 6g protein, 147g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (91% of the Daily Value) and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein.
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 whole wheat noodles instead of fine noodles?
Yes, whole wheat noodles can be used as a healthier alternative, providing more fiber. Just be aware that they may alter the texture slightly, making the casserole a bit denser, but they will still absorb the flavors well.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! This recipe is easily adaptable to vegetarian recipes by using vegetable broth instead of any meat-based ingredients. Ensure the cream of mushroom soup is vegetarian, and consider adding more sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor.
What can I do if I don't have evaporated milk?
If you don't have evaporated milk on hand, you can substitute it with a mixture of regular milk and cream, using ¾ cup of milk combined with ¼ cup of heavy cream. Alternatively, you can use a non-dairy milk option such as almond or soy milk for a lactose-free version.
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).