Wiggle Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole combining seasoned ground beef, noodles, vegetables, and creamy soup, ideal for family dinners and easy to customize with cheese or bacon topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Cook noodles until tender.
- Layer cooked hamburger, noodles, drained peas or mixed vegetables, mushroom or chicken soup, and canned tomatoes in a baking dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
- Add sliced cheese or crumbled bacon on top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using garlic powder or Italian seasoning in the meat mixture. If you're out of cream of mushroom or chicken soup, blended silken tofu can serve as a creamy substitute. You can also swap out the hamburger for ground turkey or venison for a leaner option that pairs well with this American recipe.
Serving Suggestions
This Wiggle Casserole is a hearty dish on its own but pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside steamed vegetables or a light soup, such as Tomato Basil Soup, for a comforting dinner. Top each serving with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat on medium power until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wiggle Casserole contains roughly 1075 calories, with 28g protein, 165g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (55% of the Daily Value), iron (42% of the Daily Value), and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1398mg per serving (61% 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 different types of noodles?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for standard noodles, you can experiment with whole wheat, gluten-free, or even zucchini noodles for a healthier twist. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different noodles may require adjustments.
What can I substitute for the canned peas?
If you don't have peas on hand, you can use canned corn, green beans, or any mixed vegetables instead. Fresh or frozen veggies can also work well; just make sure to cook them beforehand to ensure they are tender.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove the cover and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's 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).