Saxapash
A hearty layered casserole featuring savory beef, creamy cheese, and tender noodles, perfect for cozy family dinners and satisfying comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet.
- Add salt, sugar, garlic salt, and tomato sauce to the beef and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Chop the spring onions and mix with room temperature sour cream and cream cheese.
- Cook the small noodles as directed on the package.
- In a buttered casserole dish, layer cooked noodles, the cream cheese mixture, and the meat mixture.
- Repeat layering until all ingredients are used.
- Top with grated Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Adjust the garlic salt to your taste, or use fresh minced garlic for a more robust flavor. You can also experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy kick, making this dish versatile for your palate.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Saxapash with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal. It pairs beautifully with Baked Hash, offering a comforting and hearty dining experience. For an extra crunch, consider topping with crushed tortilla chips or serving with pickled jalapeños on the side. This dish also makes for great meal prep, suitable for lunches throughout the week.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, cool the dish completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, ensuring it's heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Saxapash contains roughly 753 calories, with 40g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (81% of the Daily Value), calcium (53% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1175mg per serving (51% 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 a different type of pasta for this dish?
Yes, you can substitute the small noodles with any short pasta, such as penne or rotini. Just ensure that the cooking time aligns with the pasta you choose, adjusting as needed for the best texture. This allows you to customize the dish to your preference while maintaining its comforting essence.
What can I add to make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the meat mixture. You could also use a spicy cheese like pepper jack on top or serve with hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick. Adjust according to your spice tolerance.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the layers in advance and assemble them in the casserole dish. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly if it's coming straight from the refrigerator; it may need a few extra minutes to heat 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).