Sicilian Supper
A hearty Sicilian-inspired casserole with savory beef, creamy cheese layers, and tender egg noodles, perfect for family dinners and comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook, drain, and rinse the egg noodles.
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Add tomato paste, salt, pepper, and water to the beef mixture.
- Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, combine milk, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and green pepper.
- Heat the mixture until blended and smooth.
- Layer the cooked noodles, beef mixture, and cheese mixture in a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Repeat layers as needed.
- Bake the casserole at 350°F for 20 minutes.
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic and Italian herbs to the beef mixture. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. For a creamy texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. If you don’t have egg noodles, you can use Parolini Spaghetti as a substitute for a different twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Sicilian Supper with a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread pairs well with the casserole, enhancing the Italian flavors. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of roasted vegetables or a light soup. This dish also pairs beautifully with Simple Meatballs for a heartier Italian feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, but be sure to cover the dish to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sicilian Supper contains roughly 466 calories, with 20g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (104% of the Daily Value), protein (40% of the Daily Value), and iron (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 563mg per serving (24% 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 up to the baking step, cover it with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time, ensuring it’s heated through.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you prefer a different flavor or consistency, you can use ricotta cheese or a blend of sour cream and cream cheese as a substitute. This will give the dish a slightly different texture but will still maintain its creamy quality.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole for up to 2 months. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until heated 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).