Rice Noodle Casserole
A comforting rice noodle casserole packed with savory flavors like chicken broth, Worcestershire, and butter. Crispy water chestnuts add texture, while onion soup provides rich depth. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this baked dish is hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a skillet, crumble the bird nest noodles into it, and brown for a few minutes.
- Add onion soup, water chestnuts, water, Worcestershire sauce, and chicken broth to the skillet.
- Mix well and transfer the mixture to a casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes to an hour until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful dish, consider adding some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the mixture. If bird nest noodles aren't available, you can substitute with any thin noodles or even cooked rice. To enhance the flavor, try adding some herbs like thyme or parsley, which pair well with the onion soup mix.
Serving Suggestions
This Rice Noodle Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a comforting twist, serve it alongside a warm bowl of Beans And Broth. You could also top it with shredded cheese before baking for an extra layer of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to the dish to prevent it from drying out, and cover it with foil during reheating. You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Noodle Casserole contains roughly 301 calories, with 5g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 509mg per serving (22% 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 in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil. When you're ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it will be starting cold.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the Worcestershire sauce or use a vegetarian alternative. You can also add more vegetables for extra texture and flavor.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole goes well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a light cucumber salad or some garlic bread. For a heartier meal, you could pair it with roasted vegetables or a side of mashed potatoes.
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).