Pennsylvania Dutch Spiced Beef Casserole
A hearty Pennsylvania Dutch casserole combining tender beef, spiced tomatoes, and pasta, topped with cheese—perfect for comforting family dinners with warm, aromatic flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown beef cubes in an electric frying pan.
- Add canned tomatoes, salt, pepper, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves; simmer for 1.5 hours.
- Cook mostaccioli pasta separately and drain.
- Combine cooked pasta with the beef and tomato mixture.
- Sprinkle grated cheese on top.
- Simmer for an additional 10 to 12 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider adding diced bell peppers or onions along with the tomatoes. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, you can increase the sugar slightly. For a gluten-free option, substitute the mostaccioli with gluten-free pasta. Browning the beef in batches helps achieve a nice sear, enhancing the overall flavor of the casserole, similar to techniques used in recipes like Beef Stew Delight.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is best served hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor. It pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the rich tomato sauce. For a comforting meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or even a light soup. It’s a perfect dish for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish until heated through. This dish also freezes well for up to three months; just thaw before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pennsylvania Dutch Spiced Beef Casserole contains roughly 186 calories, with 4g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (119% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 a different type of meat for this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute beef with other meats such as chicken or turkey, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Ground beef is another option, but will require less cooking time. Just ensure the meat is fully cooked before mixing with the other ingredients.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when simmering the mixture. Another option is to add a dash of hot sauce to taste. This can enhance the flavor profile and give it a kick, making it a hearty dish like the Mighty Meat Loaf.
What cheese works best for topping this casserole?
A blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese is ideal for topping this dish, as they melt beautifully and add a rich flavor. If you prefer something sharper, try using Gruyère or Parmesan. Whichever cheese you choose, sprinkle it generously before the final simmer for a bubbly, golden crust.
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).