Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that won't keep you chained to the kitchen all evening? Look no further! This noodle and hamburger recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a delicious blend of savory hamburger goodness and tender noodles, ready in under 30 minutes. This recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all levels. Get ready to experience a delightful dish that’s both healthy and incredibly satisfying!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed tomato soup
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Noodles: Cook egg noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside. This simple step ensures perfectly cooked noodles that are ready to be combined with the flavorful hamburger sauce.
-
Brown the Hamburger: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease. Remember to cook the beef thoroughly to ensure food safety.
-
Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the foundation of the rich flavor profile of this delicious dish.
-
Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato soup, oregano, basil, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
-
Combine and Serve: Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet and toss gently to coat them evenly with the hamburger sauce. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat the noodles through.
-
Garnish and Enjoy: Serve immediately, topped with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh parsley, if desired. This simple garnish adds a final touch of visual appeal and enhances the overall taste experience.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For a richer flavor, use ground chuck instead of lean ground beef.
- Add a pinch of sugar to the sauce to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to the skillet along with the onions.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Spicy Noodle and Hamburger: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or crumbled vegetarian ground meat substitute for a hearty vegetarian meal.
- Creamy Noodle and Hamburger: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or sour cream at the end for a creamier, richer sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
This simple noodle and hamburger recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and best recipes. It's a versatile dish that can be easily customized to your liking, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying and delicious weeknight dinner. Enjoy!