Vegetable-Beef Casserole
A hearty vegetable-beef casserole combining tender noodles, savory ground beef, mixed vegetables, and tomatoes, baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the noodles until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Lightly brown the chopped onion in margarine.
- Add the ground beef and cook slowly until browned.
- Blend in the flour and the cooked noodles.
- Add the can of vegetables including liquid, canned tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 20 to 30 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of shredded cheese to the mixture before baking. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked noodles or substitute with whole grain or gluten-free noodles. For added flavor, try incorporating herbs like thyme or oregano, which work well with beef recipes. If you want a bit more texture, mix in some cooked mushrooms or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
This Vegetable-Beef Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli for a complete meal. For an extra touch, serve it with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side. You could also top it with grated cheese before baking for a cheesy crust that complements the dish well. For more hearty meals, browse other American recipes like Li'L Cheddar Meat Loaves.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it's well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vegetable-Beef Casserole contains roughly 294 calories, with 5g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (53% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1494mg 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 use a different type of meat in this casserole?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you're looking for a vegetarian alternative, try using a meat substitute like lentils or textured vegetable protein, which can provide a similar texture and flavor.
What can I do if I don't have canned mixed vegetables?
If you don't have canned mixed vegetables on hand, you can easily use fresh or frozen vegetables instead. Just make sure to cook them slightly before adding to the casserole to ensure they are tender after baking. Peas, carrots, and corn work particularly well.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when combining the ingredients. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking for an extra kick. This dish can be easily customized to suit your spice preference.
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).