Noodles And Ground Beef Casserole
A hearty casserole combining tender noodles, savory ground beef, melted cheese, and tomato soup, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook noodles according to package directions with salt. Drain.
- Brown the ground beef with chopped onion and 1 teaspoon of salt in a skillet.
- Drain the grease off the cooked meat.
- Stir melted butter into the cooked noodles and blend it into the meat mixture.
- In a bowl, combine tomato soup, water, and grated Cheddar cheese.
- Mix the soup mixture into the noodles and ground beef until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of sour cream to the soup mixture. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you're looking to add some vegetables, throw in some frozen peas or chopped bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. To enhance the flavor, add garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the meat mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier dinner, serve it with crusty bread or garlic bread. You can also top each serving with additional grated cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, offering a comforting option that everyone will enjoy.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, ensuring they're heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Noodles And Ground Beef Casserole contains roughly 1316 calories, with 30g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 104g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (66% of the Daily Value), protein (61% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2662mg per serving (116% 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?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will go into the oven cold.
What can I substitute for tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup on hand, you can use a can of diced tomatoes or a homemade tomato sauce instead. Just blend the diced tomatoes with some seasoning for consistency similar to soup, and mix it with the water and cheese as directed.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before baking. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This makes it a great option for meal prepping.
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).