Eight-layer Casserole

Eight-layer Casserole Recipe - Noodles, Ground Beef, Tomato Sauce, and More

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 55 minutes | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Eight-layer casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for a family dinner or potluck. This recipe features layers of noodles, ground beef, tomato sauce, spinach, and a creamy cheese mixture, all topped with melted cheddar cheese.

History

The origins of the eight-layer casserole are not clear, but it is a popular comfort food dish that has been enjoyed by many families for generations. This recipe is a classic combination of flavors and textures that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients

3 cups of dried medium noodles (6 oz or 170 g)
1 lb of ground beef (454 g)
2 cans of tomato sauce (8 oz or 227 g each)
1 tsp of crushed dried basil
0.5 tsp of sugar
0.5 tsp of garlic powder
0.25 tsp of salt
0.25 tsp of black pepper
1 carton of dairy sour cream (8 oz or 227 g)
1 package of cream cheese, softened (8 oz or 227 g)
0.5 cup of milk
0.33 cup of chopped onion (1 small)
1 package of frozen chopped spinach, cooked and well drained (10 oz or 283 g)
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (4 oz or 113 g)

How to prepare

Grease a 2 qt (1.89 liter) casserole or a 2 qt square baking dish; set aside.
Cook the noodles according to the package directions; drain and set aside.
Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook the beef until browned.
Drain off the fat.
Stir the tomato sauce, basil, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the skillet.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat.
Simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes.
In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the sour cream and cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth.
Stir in the milk and onion.
In the prepared casserole or baking dish, layer half of the noodles (about 2 cups), half of the meat mixture (about 1.5 cups), half of the cream cheese mixture (about 1 cup), and all of the spinach.
Top with the remaining meat mixture and noodles.
Cover and chill the remaining cream cheese mixture until needed.
Cover the casserole or baking dish with lightly greased foil.
Bake in a 350°F (177°C) oven for about 45 minutes or until heated through.
Uncover and spread the remaining cream cheese mixture over the top.
Sprinkle with the cheddar cheese.
Bake, uncovered, for about 10 minutes more or until the cheese is melted.
Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Variations

You can add cooked bacon or sausage to the meat mixture for extra flavor.
Try using different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique twist.
For a spicy kick, add some diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the noodles al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.

- Make sure to drain the spinach well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.

- You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to the meat mixture.

- For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground beef with tofu or lentils.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the eight-layer casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Layering the ingredients in the casserole dish ensures that each bite is packed with flavor. Be sure to evenly distribute the ingredients for a well-balanced dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef in this recipe. You can also use gluten-free noodles for a gluten-free version of the dish.

Make Ahead Tips

You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. This is a great make-ahead dish for busy weeknights.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the casserole with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for a pop of color. You can also serve it in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Eight-layer casserole pairs well with a crisp green salad and a glass of red wine or iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of eight-layer casserole contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of eight-layer casserole contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of eight-layer casserole contains approximately 25 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of eight-layer casserole contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (sour cream, cream cheese, cheddar cheese) and wheat (noodles), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Eight-layer casserole is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Eight-layer casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for feeding a crowd. With layers of noodles, meat, spinach, and cheese, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Eight-layer Casserole. It was a warm summer day, and I was at a flea market rummaging through old cookbooks when I came across a tattered, stained recipe card. The title caught my eye, and I knew I had to try it out.

As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could tell that this was going to be a special dish. The combination of ground beef, rice, vegetables, and cheese seemed like a comforting and hearty meal that would be perfect for a family dinner.

I decided to make the casserole that very night, following the instructions to a tee. I carefully layered the ingredients in a baking dish, making sure to evenly distribute the cheese and sauce. As I popped it in the oven, I couldn't wait to see how it would turn out.

When the casserole was finally done, I took it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. The aroma that wafted through the kitchen was absolutely divine, and I knew that I had stumbled upon a true gem of a recipe.

I served the casserole to my family that night, and they all raved about how delicious it was. My husband even went back for seconds, which was a rare occurrence. From that moment on, Eight-layer Casserole became a staple in our household.

Over the years, I have made this casserole countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my family's tastes. Sometimes I add extra vegetables or switch up the type of cheese I use. But no matter how I change it, the casserole always turns out delicious.

I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, and it has become a favorite among them as well. I even entered it into a local cooking competition once and won first place. The judges couldn't get enough of the layers of flavor and the perfect balance of ingredients.

As I look back on that fateful day at the flea market, I can't help but feel grateful for stumbling upon this recipe. It has brought me joy, praise, and a sense of accomplishment every time I make it.

I like to think that the person who originally wrote down this recipe did so with love and care, knowing that it would bring joy to those who made it. And I am grateful that I have been able to carry on that tradition, passing down this delicious dish to my children and grandchildren.

So the next time you're looking for a comforting and delicious meal to make for your family, I urge you to give Eight-layer Casserole a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe you'll stumble upon a hidden gem of a recipe, just like I did.