Introduction
This hearty casserole featuring ground beef, colorful vegetables, and gooey cheese is a comfort food classic that is perfect for family dinners. It’s easy to prepare and brings together a wonderful combination of flavors in a single dish. With the addition of egg noodles, this recipe is not only filling but also satisfying, making it ideal for a busy weeknight meal or a gathering with friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– 1 cup diced onion
– 1 cup diced green bell pepper
– 1 teaspoon minced garlic
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
– 1 (14-ounce) can diced Italian-style tomatoes
– ½ cup frozen peas and carrots
– ¼ cup frozen corn
– 4 cups cooked egg noodles
– 2 cups shredded cheddar-jack cheese, divided
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 6
This delightful casserole is sure to please everyone at the table. With simple preparation and a rich, comforting taste, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed again and again. Serve warm, and consider garnishing with fresh parsley for a touch of color and added flavor!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F and spray a 13×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a medium skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until almost done, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as you go.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Add the diced onion and green bell pepper to the skillet; cook for about 4 minutes.
Step 4: Incorporate Seasoning
Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning; cook for an additional minute.
Step 5: Mix in Tomato Products
Pour in the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes; cook together for a few minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 6: Prepare the Baking Dish
Place the cooked egg noodles in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Step 7: Combine Ingredients
Pour the ground beef mixture over the noodles.
Step 8: Add Frozen Vegetables and Cheese
Add the frozen peas, carrots, and half of the shredded cheese; mix everything together thoroughly.
Step 9: Top with Cheese
Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
Step 10: Bake the Casserole
Bake for 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the casserole is heated through.
Step 11: Serve
Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Ingredient Variations
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Storage
This casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
To reheat, place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through, or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until hot.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a quick cooking technique that involves cooking food, typically vegetables or meat, in a small amount of fat over relatively high heat. In this recipe, the ground beef, onions, green bell peppers, and garlic are sautéed to enhance their flavor and texture before combining them with other ingredients.
Baking
Baking is a method that uses dry heat in an oven to cook food. This recipe requires baking the assembled casserole at 375°F, which melts the cheese and blends the flavors of the ingredients, resulting in a hearty dish.
Mixing
Mixing involves combining ingredients together to ensure an even distribution of flavors. In this recipe, the frozen peas, carrots, and shredded cheese are mixed thoroughly into the ground beef mixture to create a well-balanced casserole.
Layering
Layering is arranging ingredients in a specific order, often to enhance cooking efficiency or presentation. This recipe uses layering by placing cooked egg noodles at the bottom, followed by the ground beef mixture and a final layer of shredded cheese.
Garnishing
Garnishing is the art of adding decorative elements to a dish for visual appeal. In this recipe, fresh parsley can be used as a garnish to enhance the presentation of the casserole when serving.
FAQ
Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based protein if desired.
What can I use instead of egg noodles?
You can use other types of pasta such as rotini, penne, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for additional flavor and nutrition.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
Conclusion
This hearty casserole blends savory ground beef with a medley of vegetables and creamy cheese, creating a deliciously comforting meal perfect for any occasion. The combination of flavors and textures not only satisfies hunger but also warms the soul, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or meal prep.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable and Cheese Bake
Substitute the ground beef with your choice of mixed vegetables and add ricotta or feta cheese for a vegetarian delight.
Chicken Alfredo Casserole
Replace the ground beef with shredded chicken and use Alfredo sauce instead of tomato sauce for a creamy twist.
Taco Casserole
Add taco seasoning to the beef mixture and top with crushed tortilla chips and salsa for a Mexican-inspired dish.
Beef and Broccoli Noodle Bake
Incorporate steamed broccoli into the beef mixture and use a soy sauce-based dressing for an Asian flair.
Quinoa and Black Bean Casserole
Substitute the egg noodles with cooked quinoa and add black beans, corn, and salsa for a healthy and gluten-free version.
