Beef Noodle Bake is a comforting and satisfying casserole dish that combines ground beef, pasta, cheese, and flavorful seasonings. It's a classic family-friendly recipe that is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. Here's a description of how to make a delicious Beef Noodle Bake:
Tips and Variations:
Tips:
1. Use lean ground beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess fat in the dish. This will help keep the casserole lighter and healthier.
2. Season the beef: Before browning the ground beef, season it with salt and pepper or your favorite seasoning blend. This will enhance the flavor of the meat and add depth to the overall dish.
3. Add extra vegetables: While the recipe includes onion and bell pepper, feel free to incorporate more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. It's a great way to add nutritional value and texture to the casserole.
4. Experiment with cheese: While mozzarella cheese is traditional, you can try using other types of cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a combination of different cheeses. It can add a different flavor profile to the dish.
5. Customize the sauce: Adjust the herbs and spices in the tomato sauce to suit your taste. You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor.
6. Top with breadcrumbs: For an added crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking. It creates a delicious golden crust on top.
Variations:
1. Mexican-inspired Beef Noodle Bake: Substitute the oregano and basil with cumin and chili powder. Add diced green chilies, black beans, and corn kernels to the beef and vegetable mixture. Top with shredded Mexican cheese blend and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.
2. Italian-style Beef Noodle Bake: Enhance the Italian flavors by adding dried Italian seasoning, minced garlic, and a splash of red wine to the beef and vegetable mixture. Use a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a cheesy topping.
3. Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Casserole: Instead of using traditional pasta, cook elbow macaroni or any other small pasta shape until al dente. Mix the cooked pasta with the beef and sauce mixture, and then transfer to the baking dish. Top with a generous amount of shredded cheese and bake until bubbly and golden.
4. Asian-inspired Beef Noodle Bake: Add a touch of Asian flair by seasoning the beef with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Stir-fry snap peas, carrots, and water chestnuts along with the beef. Use a combination of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese for the topping.
Feel free to experiment and adapt the Beef Noodle Bake recipe to your preferences. These tips and variations will help you create a dish that suits your taste and adds exciting twists to the classic casserole. Enjoy the process of customizing this comforting and delicious meal!
Ingredients:
- - 8 ounces elbow macaroni or any other pasta shape you prefer
- - 1 pound ground beef
- - 1 onion, finely chopped
- - 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- - 1 bell pepper, diced (any color you prefer)
- - 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- - 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- - 1 teaspoon dried basil
- - 1/2 teaspoon salt
- - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- - 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the vegetables are tender.
4. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef and sauce mixture. Stir until everything is well coated.
6. Transfer the beef and pasta mixture to the greased baking dish. Spread it evenly.
7. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole, covering it completely.
8. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
9. Once done, remove the Beef Noodle Bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for garnish, if desired.
10. Serve the Beef Noodles Bake warm as a main course. It pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables.