Classic Tomato Beef Country Casserole: A Comforting Dish for Any Occasion

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Classic Tomato Beef Country Casserole: A Comforting Dish for Any Occasion

Classic Tomato Beef Country Casserole: A Comforting Dish for Any Occasion

In the realm of comforting and hearty meals, the classic Tomato Beef Country Casserole stands out as a timeless favorite. This dish, with its rich flavors and satisfying textures, is a staple in many households and is perfect for cozy family dinners or potluck gatherings. In this article, we will delve into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips for perfecting, and variations to customize the classic Tomato Beef Country Casserole dish.

Here's a comforting Tomato Beef Country Casserole recipe, brimming with ground beef, vegetables, and cheesy goodness. It's perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner and easily customizable to your liking. This recipe yields a 9x13 inch casserole, perfect for 4-6 servings.

Estimated Timing:

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30-35 minutes (including cooking noodles)
Total time: 45-50 minutes
Serves: 4-6

Nutrition Information (per serving):

This information is approximate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

  • Calories: 500-600
  • Fat: 25-30 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams
  • Protein: 30-35 grams
  • Sodium: 800-1000 milligrams (This can vary depending on the sodium content of the soups you use. Look for low-sodium options when possible.)

Ingredients for Classic Tomato Beef Country Casserole Dish

For the Beef:

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

  • 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed tomato soup
  • 1 (10.75-ounce) can cream of celery soup
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

For the Rest of the Casserole:

  • 6 ounces sliced mushrooms (optional)
  • 1 (12-ounce) bag wide egg noodles, cooked according to package directions (al dente)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or another melting cheese)
  • Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Classic Tomato Beef Country Casserole Dish

  1. Preheat and Grease: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and onion until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess grease.
  3. Season and Sauté: Stir in the garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Soup, Water, and Mushrooms: If using, add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the condensed tomato soup, cream of celery soup, water, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes.
  5. Assemble the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, spread the cooked noodles evenly. Top with the ground beef mixture and sauce.
  6. Cheese Time! Sprinkle the top with the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese.
  7. Bake to Bubbly Perfection: Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
  8. Garnish (Optional): Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness (optional).

Tips for a Spectacular Country Casserole:

  • Brown Beautiful Beef: Don't overcrowd the pan when browning the ground beef. This allows for even browning and prevents the meat from steaming instead of searing.
  • Veggie Versatility: Feel free to add other chopped vegetables to the casserole, such as green bell pepper, carrots, or peas.
  • Soup Swap: If you don't have cream of celery soup, cream of mushroom soup works well too. Cream of broccoli or even cream of chicken would also be acceptable substitutes.
  • Nostalgic Noodles: Wide egg noodles are a classic choice for country casseroles, but you could also use other shapes like elbow macaroni or penne.

Enjoy this delicious and comforting Tomato Beef Country Casserole! It's a hearty dish that's sure to warm you up from the inside out. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables and cheeses, and savor a taste of country cooking!

Conclusion

In conclusion, the classic Tomato Beef Country Casserole is a versatile and comforting dish that can be tailored to suit any palate. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or get creative with variations, this casserole is sure to be a hit at any gathering. So gather your ingredients, follow the step-by-step instructions, and enjoy a hearty and delicious meal that will warm both body and soul.