Craving a hearty, delicious, and effortlessly satisfying meal that the whole family will adore? Look no further than this incredible 7-Layer Casserole with Ground Beef! This classic comfort food is not only incredibly flavorful but also surprisingly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend gathering. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful mix of textures and tastes in every bite. Get ready to experience a symphony of flavors – from savory ground beef to creamy cheese and crunchy toppings – all nestled in a comforting bed of pasta. Let's dive into this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed tomato soup
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces egg noodles, cooked according to package directions
- 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips or crushed potato chips
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté the Onions
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato soup, oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This simple sauce creates the perfect base for our casserole.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread half of the cooked egg noodles evenly. Top with half of the meat sauce, followed by half of the ricotta cheese, and then half of the Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers: remaining noodles, remaining meat sauce, remaining ricotta cheese, and finally, the mozzarella cheese.
Step 4: Bake and Enjoy
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Once it's out of the oven, sprinkle the crushed tortilla chips (or potato chips) evenly over the top. Let it stand for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve.
Tips for the Best 7 Layer Casserole:
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a subtle kick.
- Don't overcook the noodles; slightly al dente is ideal to prevent them from becoming mushy in the casserole.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack would also be delicious.
- If you prefer a richer sauce, use a combination of tomato sauce and cream of mushroom soup.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or black beans for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño pepper to the meat sauce for some extra heat.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the meat sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Use a nutrition calculator for a precise estimation based on your ingredients. Generally, expect this dish to be high in protein and carbohydrates, a good source of calcium from the cheese, and relatively high in calories due to the cheese and ground beef.
This 7-layer casserole is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals that don’t compromise on taste. It’s a simple recipe that allows for easy customization, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Enjoy the deliciousness!