Ole Casserole
Ole Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish featuring seasoned ground beef, tender noodles, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce topped with melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners, it combines savory ingredients with cheesy goodness, making it a satisfying and versatile meal for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the noodles until tender and drain.
- Fry the ground beef in a skillet and remove excess fat.
- Add the tomato soup, tomato sauce, corn, salt, and pepper to the beef and simmer until well mixed.
- Mix the cooked noodles into the meat mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to a 4-quart casserole dish.
- Top with grated cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also swap the canned corn for frozen corn or add diced bell peppers for extra nutrition. If you prefer a spicier dish, add a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning before baking, as this will enhance the final flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ole Casserole with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Betty Baked Beans for a heartier spread. For a comforting side, consider steamed vegetables or garlic bread. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake covered for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ole Casserole contains roughly 524 calories, with 15g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (215% of the Daily Value), protein (29% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1334mg per serving (58% 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 assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup, you can substitute it with a can of crushed tomatoes mixed with a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity. Alternatively, you could use homemade tomato sauce if you have it on hand, which will also add a fresh flavor.
Can I freeze the Ole Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until warmed through.
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).