Description
Crazy Good Casserole is a hearty and flavorful baked dish combining seasoned ground beef, sautéed vegetables, creamy mushroom and chicken soups, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and tender egg noodles, all topped with a melty blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a comforting family meal, this casserole offers a satisfying mix of textures and robust southwestern-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish using cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Meat and Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped green bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the vegetables are softened, about 7-10 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with condensed cream of mushroom soup, condensed cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes with green chilies, sour cream, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Add Noodles: Fold in the cooked and drained egg noodles into the sauce mixture, ensuring the noodles are well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a leaner option.
- Adjust the chili powder and cumin amounts to suit your preferred spice level.
- For a creamier texture, use full-fat sour cream.
- Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave.
- Use gluten-free egg noodles to make the casserole gluten-free.
