Talorini
A hearty casserole combining ground beef, tomatoes, corn, and melted cheese, baked to perfection. Ideal for feeding a crowd with comforting, savory flavors and cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sear ground round until browned, breaking into pieces.
- Add undrained tomatoes, tomato paste, and noodles to the meat.
- Cook until noodles are tender.
- Add creamed corn and cubed Velveeta cheese; stir until cheese melts.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer to a greased casserole dish, cover, and bake at 350°F for 1.5 hours.
- Twenty minutes before the end of baking, sprinkle with grated Cheddar cheese and paprika.
- Refrigerate overnight if desired, then bake the next day before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or onions to the ground beef while browning. You can substitute the ground round with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you're looking to make it vegetarian, try using lentils instead of meat and vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the noodles. This dish is also great for using leftover veggies.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is perfect for a family dinner and pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside a light dessert like Strawberry Jello Fruit Salad for a refreshing finish. If you're looking for a unique twist, try serving with a side of Cinnamon Glazed Almonds for added crunch and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to avoid drying out. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Talorini contains roughly 221 calories, with 23g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. At about 221 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead, assemble it, and then refrigerate overnight. Just bake it the next day when you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and saves time on busy days.
What can I use instead of Velveeta cheese?
If you prefer a different cheese, you can use any creamy cheese that melts well, such as cream cheese or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella. Just ensure it’s cubed or shredded to promote even melting throughout the casserole.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. To reheat, it's best to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking, ensuring even heating throughout.
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).