Description
Crazy Good Casserole is a hearty and flavorful one-dish meal combining ground beef, tender vegetables, creamy soups, tangy tomatoes with green chilies, and cheesy noodles baked to perfection. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for family dinners and serves up comfort and spice in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce and Seasonings
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Noodles and Cheese
- 8 oz egg noodles, cooked and drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For Cooking and Garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prepare it for the casserole.
- Cook the Beef and Vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 lb of ground beef, 1 chopped medium onion, and 1 chopped green bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the vegetables are softened, approximately 7-10 minutes. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef and vegetable mixture with 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup, 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup, 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, 1 cup sour cream, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly blended.
- Add Noodles and Cheese: Fold in 8 oz of cooked and drained egg noodles along with 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese into the combined mixture. Mix gently to incorporate evenly.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the mixture to the greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a touch of freshness and color.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a leaner option.
- For extra spice, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free egg noodles or a pasta alternative.
- Drain the excess fat properly to reduce greasiness in the casserole.
