Tollerini
Tollerini is a hearty baked pasta dish blending savory ground beef, creamy corn, and spicy peppers, topped with melted cheddar—perfect for comforting family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a 10-inch skillet; drain off fat.
- Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, creamed corn, chopped bell pepper, chopped onion, chili powder, and cayenne pepper to the beef. Simmer over medium-low heat for 20 minutes.
- Meanwhile, fill a 2-quart saucepan half full of water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
- Add spiral noodles to boiling water; boil for 10 minutes.
- Drain the noodles.
- Remove meat mixture from heat and pour into a large casserole dish.
- Pour the cooked noodles over the meat mixture and mix well.
- Cover and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
- Sprinkle grated Cheddar cheese on top and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives. You can use any type of pasta instead of spiral noodles, but cooking times may vary. This dish is similar to 'Hamburger Noodle Skillet' so feel free to experiment with seasonings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Tollerini with a side salad for a refreshing contrast, or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. This dish also pairs beautifully with 'Saucy Skillet Supper' for a comforting meal. Consider topping each serving with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or a baking dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If the dish seems dry, add a splash of water or extra tomato sauce before reheating to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tollerini contains roughly 748 calories, with 33g protein, 119g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (238% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (231% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 65g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a healthier option. Just ensure that the cooking times are adjusted accordingly to achieve proper doneness.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free pasta instead of spiral noodles. Additionally, make sure the canned tomato products and creamed corn are labeled gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and noodles in advance. Combine them in the casserole dish, cover, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
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).