Crusty Cheese, Beef, and Noodle Casserole
Welcome to the ultimate comfort dish that combines hearty flavors and satisfying textures. This Crusty Cheese, Beef, and Noodle Casserole is a warm and filling meal that’s perfect for cozy dinners or feeding a crowd. Adapted from a cherished hospital cookbook, this recipe delivers a robust and cheesy experience, with layers of savory ground beef, rich spaghetti sauce, and gooey sharp cheddar cheese. 🌟
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups spaghetti sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon seasoning salt
- 4 cups cooked egg noodles (drained and cooled)
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s at the right temperature to give your casserole a delicious, golden crust. -
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Sauté the Onions:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are soft and golden brown. This process should take about 5-7 minutes. The onions will add a sweet, savory base to your casserole. -
Cook the Ground Beef:
To the skillet with the onions, add the ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Make sure to break up the meat into small crumbles as it cooks. This step ensures an even distribution of beef throughout the casserole. -
Add Spaghetti Sauce and Salt:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the spaghetti sauce and salt. Allow the mixture to heat through, simmering for about 5 minutes. This will help meld the flavors and create a rich sauce. -
Prepare the Casserole Layers:
Lightly grease a casserole dish (about 9×13 inches) with a bit of oil or cooking spray. Begin layering the casserole by spreading half of the meat sauce mixture evenly on the bottom of the dish. -
Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle half of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the meat sauce layer. The cheese will melt and create a deliciously gooey layer in your casserole. -
Season and Layer Noodles:
Sprinkle the seasoning salt over the cheese layer for added flavor. Arrange the cooked egg noodles over the cheese, spreading them out evenly. This layer of noodles will absorb some of the sauce and add a wonderful texture to the dish. -
Finish with Sauce and Cheese:
Spread the remaining meat sauce over the noodles, ensuring that the noodles are well covered. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese. This will form a luscious, crusty top as it bakes. -
Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. The cheese should be melted and slightly crisped, creating a satisfying crust. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the layers set and make serving easier. Enjoy your Crusty Cheese, Beef, and Noodle Casserole with a crisp green salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 726.1
- Fat: 41.7 g
- Saturated Fat: 19.7 g
- Cholesterol: 184.3 mg
- Sodium: 730 mg
- Carbohydrates: 42.6 g
- Fiber: 2.1 g
- Sugar: 1.9 g
- Protein: 43.4 g
Tips for Success
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to use different types of cheese if sharp cheddar isn’t your favorite. A mix of mozzarella and provolone can also work beautifully.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce if you prefer a bit of heat.
- Vegetable Boost: Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms into the meat sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
Enjoy this cozy and comforting Crusty Cheese, Beef, and Noodle Casserole at your next family dinner or casual gathering. Its rich flavors and satisfying texture are sure to make it a new favorite! 🌟🍽️
