Oven Bake
A comforting casserole of seasoned ground beef, creamy tomato soup, and corn, topped with tender noodles—simple, hearty, and perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef, onion, salt, and pepper in a Dutch oven.
- Boil the noodles according to package directions.
- Drain the noodles and add them to the beef mixture along with the tomato soup, creamed corn, whole kernel corn, and peas.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding garlic or Italian seasoning to the beef while browning. For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for beef and use whole grain noodles. You can also swap the tomato soup for homemade marinara sauce for a fresher taste. If you're looking for a twist, try adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty and pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up the flavors. For a family-style dinner, serve alongside mashed potatoes or rice, which complement the casserole well. It also makes for an excellent potluck contribution.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. You can also freeze the casserole before baking; just extend the baking time by 10-15 minutes when cooking from frozen.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Bake contains roughly 824 calories, with 41g protein, 183g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (506% of the Daily Value), protein (81% of the Daily Value), and iron (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2930mg per serving (127% 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 use different types of noodles for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini, penne, or even gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the noodles you choose to ensure they are al dente before mixing them with the other ingredients.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this dish?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative like tempeh or tofu crumbles. Use vegetable broth instead of canned soups and add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach to create a hearty vegetarian casserole that everyone will enjoy.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance. Assemble all ingredients in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).