Saturday Noodle Bake
A hearty baked noodle dish combining savory ground meats, creamy tomato sauce, and crunchy cornflake topping. Rich flavors of beef, pork, and tomato are complemented by a touch of sweetness and seasonings, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Comfort food at its best.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and ground pork in margarine; add chopped onion and cook until tender.
- Add condensed tomato soup, cream cheese, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper; simmer for 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the wide noodles and drain.
- Place the cooked noodles in a buttered 11 x 7-inch baking dish.
- Pour the sauce over the noodles.
- Mix crushed cornflakes with melted butter and sprinkle over the top of the casserole.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider using a combination of cream cheese and ricotta. If you prefer a leaner option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition. If you have leftover sauce, it pairs well with pasta, or use it in dishes like Quick Meat Loaf.
Serving Suggestions
This noodle bake is a hearty main dish that can be complemented with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting twist, serve it alongside garlic bread or a warm slice of cornbread. It pairs beautifully with Zesty Tomato Mac And Beef for a delightful dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out while reheating in the oven.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Saturday Noodle Bake contains roughly 301 calories, with 18g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1491mg per serving (65% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the noodle bake ahead of time. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze the noodle bake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled noodle bake before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What can I use instead of cornflakes?
If you don't have cornflakes, try using crushed potato chips or panko breadcrumbs for a crispy topping. You can also use crushed crackers or even toasted nuts for a different texture and flavor.
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).