Midwestern Pasta Casserole Recipe – Hearty & Flavorful Comfort Food
Table of Contents
Introduction
Are you looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make? Look no further than the Midwestern Pasta Casserole! This hearty and flavorful casserole brings together pasta, savory meat, creamy cheese, and a touch of seasoning in a way that’s guaranteed to please every palate. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, hosting a get-together, or just in the mood for some comforting home cooking, this dish hits the spot every time.
What’s even better? It’s quick and simple to put together. If you’re the kind of cook who loves a dish that’s as easy as it is delicious, this recipe is for you. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something hearty and fulfilling but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
If you’re a fan of casserole dishes like our famous Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole, you’ll love this Midwestern Pasta Casserole too. It’s packed with familiar, comforting flavors that make you feel right at home. So, grab your apron and get ready for a mouthwatering dish that’s about to become a new family favorite!
What is Midwestern Pasta Casserole?
Ever wonder why some recipes are named after places? Well, the Midwestern Pasta Casserole got its name from the heart of the United States – the Midwest! This casserole is a true comfort food, often made with simple ingredients found in nearly every Midwestern kitchen. Think of it as a warm, cheesy hug in a baking dish!
In the Midwest, the way to a person’s heart is often through their stomach, and this dish definitely lives up to that saying. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel right at home with its creamy textures and savory flavors. Why the “pasta” part, you ask? Because pasta just makes everything better, doesn’t it? This casserole is packed with the goodness of tender pasta and seasoned meat, making it a one-dish wonder that’s perfect for families and gatherings. So, what are you waiting for? Try it for yourself and let your taste buds take a trip to the Midwest!
Why You’ll Love This Midwestern Pasta Casserole
There are a few things that make Midwestern Pasta Casserole irresistible, and they all come together to create a dish that’s as practical as it is delicious. First off, this casserole is the perfect example of simple, comforting home cooking at its finest. The creamy, cheesy goodness coats every noodle, while the hearty meat and savory seasonings make it a meal that’s anything but bland.
The best part? Making it yourself saves money compared to ordering takeout or grabbing pre-made meals from the store. Plus, with just a few basic ingredients, you can create a dish that feels rich and indulgent without breaking the bank. Add in the customizable toppings and seasonings, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing dinner in no time!
If you love casseroles like our Baked Ziti with Ground Beef, this Midwestern Pasta Casserole is a must-try! It’s equally satisfying and has that classic casserole feel, but with its own unique twist. Ready to dive into this cheesy, savory goodness? Let’s go!
How to Make Midwestern Pasta Casserole
Quick Overview
The Midwestern Pasta Casserole is simple to make and comes together in under an hour. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, with minimal prep work involved. The creamy sauce and flavorful filling will bake to perfection, resulting in a cheesy, hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is ideal for busy evenings when you want something quick and comforting, and the best part is, it’ll feed a crowd!
Key Ingredients for Midwestern Pasta Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- 1 pound of pasta (penne or rotini works best)
- 1 pound of ground beef or turkey
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat Oven – Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Pasta – Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Brown the Meat – In a large skillet, brown the ground beef (or turkey) over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
- Mix the Sauce – In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, basil, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Combine Pasta and Meat – Add the cooked pasta and browned meat to the mixing bowl with the sauce. Stir gently to combine everything.
- Layer in Baking Dish – Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with Cheese – Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Bake – Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve – Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve hot!
What to Serve Midwestern Pasta Casserole With
This casserole pairs perfectly with a side of crispy garlic bread or a simple green salad. A light, tangy salad with a vinaigrette dressing balances out the richness of the dish. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables for a more complete meal. If you’re in the mood for something warm and cozy to drink, a classic iced tea or lemonade complements the casserole perfectly.
Top Tips for Perfecting Midwestern Pasta Casserole
- Meat Options: You can use ground beef, turkey, or even chicken for this recipe. Feel free to experiment with what you have on hand!
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar is a classic, feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for added flavor.
- Add Vegetables: For an extra dose of veggies, consider adding peas, bell peppers, or even spinach to the casserole before baking.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also freeze the casserole before baking for a quick meal in the future. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Recipe Schema Markup for Midwestern Pasta Casserole
- Preparation Time: PT15M
- Cooking Time: PT30M
- Total Time: PT45M
- Type of Recipe: Main Dish
- Cuisine: American
- Keywords: casserole, pasta, comfort food, hearty dinner, Midwestern
- Recipe Yield: 6 servings
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Recipe Ingredients
- 1 pound of pasta
- 1 pound of ground beef or turkey
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper
Pros
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Hearty and filling
- Family-friendly
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Not suitable for vegans
- Can be high in calories (for those watching their intake)
Recipe Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cook pasta, then drain.
- Brown meat in skillet, drain fat.
- Mix cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, basil, tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
- Combine meat and pasta with sauce.
- Pour mixture into greased baking dish and top with cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly.
- Garnish and serve.
Ready to make your own Midwestern Pasta Casserole? With its savory flavors and creamy texture, this comforting dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection!