The Meat Lovers Savory Casserole is the ultimate dish for all carnivores out there. Imagine layers of perfectly cooked meat, rich sauces, and delightful spices coming together in a warm embrace. The aroma wafts through your kitchen like a siren’s call, beckoning everyone to the dinner table. For more inspiration, check out this more dinner ideas recipe.
This hearty casserole is perfect for cozy family dinners, game nights with friends, or even potlucks where you want to impress. With every bite, you’ll experience the satisfaction of flavors dancing on your palate. Get ready for a culinary adventure that promises to become a staple in your home!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Meat Lovers Savory Casserole is super easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
- The flavor profile is rich and satisfying, sure to please any meat enthusiast
- Its visual appeal makes it an eye-catching centerpiece for any gathering
- Versatile enough to adapt with different meats or veggies based on your preference!
I remember the first time I made this casserole; my family practically fought over the last bite! Their delighted reactions were priceless.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use fresh ground beef for optimal flavor; 80/20 gives the best balance of taste and juiciness.
- Pork Sausage: Choose spicy sausage for a kick or mild if you prefer less heat; it adds incredible depth.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar brings that melty goodness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Noodles: Use egg noodles for their texture; they soak up the sauce beautifully while remaining tender.
- Onions: Diced onions add sweetness and depth; sauté until translucent for maximum flavor.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the dish with its aromatic essence; don’t skimp here!
- Tomato Sauce: Opt for a rich tomato sauce; it ties everything together with its tangy goodness.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs adds warmth and complexity; feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Oven and Noodles: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Boil water in a large pot and cook egg noodles until al dente, about 6-8 minutes.
Sauté the Meats and Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and pork sausage until fully cooked. Add diced onions and cook until they turn soft and translucent.
Add Garlic and Tomato Sauce: Stir in minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the tomato sauce along with Italian seasoning, mixing well to combine all flavors.
Combine Everything Together: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked noodles with meat mixture. Fold gently to ensure every noodle is coated in that savory goodness.
Layer with Cheese and Bake!: Transfer half of the noodle mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle half of the cheese before layering in the remaining noodle mixture on top. Finish by covering with more cheese!
Bake Until Golden Brown: Place in preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbling hot and cheese is melted to golden perfection. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
You Must Know
- This Meat Lovers Savory Casserole is a hearty dish packed with flavors
- It’s perfect for family gatherings and easy to customize based on what meats you have
- The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make everyone eagerly await dinner time!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meats in a skillet, then layer ingredients in a baking dish while preheating your oven. This sequence ensures everything cooks evenly and flavors meld beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out meats or toss in veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms. Adding spices like smoked paprika or Italian herbs can elevate the flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, preserving that delicious texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best results, ensure all your meat is well-seasoned before cooking
- Don’t skip browning the meat; it adds depth of flavor
- Layering the ingredients properly allows even cooking and prevents sogginess
Cooking this Meat Lovers Savory Casserole always reminds me of family gatherings, where everyone digs in happily, sharing stories and laughter over bites of hearty goodness.
FAQ
Can I use different types of meat for this casserole?
Absolutely! Customize with chicken, beef, or sausage based on your preferences.
How long does it take to cook the casserole?
Bake the casserole for about 30-40 minutes at 375°F until bubbly and golden.
Can I freeze leftovers from this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze portions for up to three months; just reheat thoroughly before serving.
Meat Lovers Savory Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in a Meat Lovers Savory Casserole, the ultimate comfort dish for meat enthusiasts! This hearty casserole features layers of savory ground beef and pork sausage, combined with egg noodles, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this easy-to-make recipe guarantees a flavorful experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 lb pork sausage (spicy or mild)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Boil water in a large pot and cook egg noodles until al dente, about 6-8 minutes.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and pork sausage until fully cooked. Add diced onions and sauté until soft.
- Stir in minced garlic for about 30 seconds, then add tomato sauce and Italian seasoning. Mix well.
- Combine the cooked noodles with the meat mixture in a large bowl until all noodles are coated.
- In a greased baking dish, layer half of the noodle mixture and sprinkle with half of the cheese. Repeat with remaining mixture and top with more cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbling hot and cheese is golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg