Description
John Wayne Casserole is a hearty and comforting baked dish combining savory ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, tender vegetables, and cheesy egg noodles. This one-pan meal offers bold flavors and simple ingredients perfect for family dinners, with flexible options for dietary preferences and easy reheating.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
Dairy and Canned Goods
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Pasta and Seasonings
- 8 ounces egg noodles or preferred pasta
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika or chili powder (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant. This step infuses your casserole with rich base flavors.
- Cook Your Pasta: While the meat mixture is cooking, boil your egg noodles or preferred pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside to mix later, making sure it doesn’t get mushy by overcooking.
- Combine the Filling: In a mixing bowl, blend the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and seasoning. Stir in the sautéed beef mixture along with frozen mixed vegetables. This creamy combination holds everything together with delicious flavor.
- Mix Pasta and Filling: Gently fold the cooked noodles into the creamy beef and vegetable mixture until evenly coated, ensuring each bite is packed with taste and texture.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving, helping it set and making it easier to slice and enjoy.
Notes
- Don’t overcook pasta; cook noodles until just al dente to prevent mushiness.
- Use fresh onions, garlic, and cheese for enhanced flavor.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to set.
- For extra texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking.
- You can prepare the casserole the day before, refrigerate, and bake when ready to enhance flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg