Nutty Noodle Casserole
A hearty, cheesy noodle casserole with savory beef, olives, crunchy chow mein noodles, and a nutty topping, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef and chopped onion until browned.
- Add drained stuffed olives, mushroom soup, milk, and salt; mix well.
- Cook wide noodles according to package instructions; drain.
- Add cooked noodles to beef mixture and combine.
- Spread half of the beef and noodle mixture in a deep casserole dish.
- Cover with grated Cheddar cheese.
- Reserve 1/4 cup of salted mixed nuts.
- Add remaining nuts to the remaining beef mixture.
- Spread remaining beef mixture over the cheese layer.
- Cover the casserole with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven, spread chow mein noodles over the top, and sprinkle with reserved nuts.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating some garlic or bell peppers when cooking the ground beef. If you want a healthier option, use ground turkey instead of beef. You can also substitute the Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack for a milder taste. If you don't have chow mein noodles, crushed tortilla chips can provide a delightful crunch on top.
Serving Suggestions
This Nutty Noodle Casserole is hearty enough to serve on its own, but it pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting touch, consider serving it alongside some garlic bread. For those who enjoy variety, explore more American recipes that showcase beef, like Sunday Beef Stew.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, individual portions can be microwaved on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nutty Noodle Casserole contains roughly 836 calories, with 26g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 47g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (52% of the Daily Value), calcium (40% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1629mg per serving (71% 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 the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of stuffed olives?
If you don't have stuffed olives, you can use sliced black or green olives for a similar briny flavor. Alternatively, diced pickles or capers can add a unique twist that complements the other ingredients.
Can I freeze Nutty Noodle Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. To freeze, cool it completely after baking, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).