Beef Taco Noodle Bake: A Flavorful Casserole for the Whole Family

This Beef Taco Noodle Bake is a deliciously hearty and cheesy casserole, combining seasoned ground beef, Southwest vegetables, tomatoes, and melty cheese with extra-wide egg noodles. The flavors of taco seasoning and enchilada sauce create a comforting dish that’s perfect for a family dinner. Quick to assemble and even quicker to bake, this casserole is a great go-to for busy weeknights.

Quick Benefits

• Easy and Quick: With just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of baking, this dish is perfect for a busy day.
• Packed with Protein: The ground beef and cheese provide a great source of protein, making this a filling and satisfying meal.
• Vegetable Boost: The Southwest mixed vegetables (corn, black beans, and red peppers) add nutrition and flavor to the dish.
• One-Pan Wonder: Everything is cooked in one dish, making cleanup a breeze.

Essential Ingredients

To make this tasty Beef Taco Noodle Bake, you’ll need the following:

• PAM® Original No-Stick Cooking Spray: For greasing the baking dish to prevent sticking.
• 6 ounces dry extra-wide egg noodles, uncooked: The base of this dish, providing a soft, comforting texture.
• 1 pound ground chuck beef (80% lean): The beef adds richness and flavor to the dish.
• 2 cups frozen Southwest mixed vegetables: A combination of corn, black beans, and red peppers that add a healthy, colorful twist.
• 1 (10 ounce) can Ro*Tel® Original Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies, undrained: Adds a zesty, slightly spicy tomato base to the dish.
• 1 (10 ounce) can red enchilada sauce: Enhances the flavor with a bold, savory kick.
• 1 ¼ cups water: To create a slightly saucy consistency for the noodles.
• 1 ¼ cups shredded Mexican blend cheese: Provides the melty, cheesy goodness that holds everything together.
• ¼ cup thinly sliced green onions: For garnish and a touch of fresh flavor.
• Sour cream (optional): For serving, adding a cool, creamy contrast to the spiciness.

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F and spray a 13×9-inch glass baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks until it’s no longer pink. Drain the fat from the beef.
3. Add the Vegetables and Sauces: Stir in the frozen Southwest mixed vegetables, undrained Ro*Tel tomatoes, enchilada sauce, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Combine with Noodles: Place the uncooked egg noodles into the prepared baking dish. Pour the beef and vegetable mixture over the noodles, making sure the noodles are evenly covered.
5. Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Stir the mixture, then sprinkle the cheese over the top and re-cover with foil. Bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the noodles are tender.
6. Serve: Once baked, sprinkle the casserole with sliced green onions and serve with a dollop of sour cream, if desired.

Health Benefits

This Beef Taco Noodle Bake offers several health benefits:

• Protein: The ground beef and cheese provide a substantial amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
• Fiber: The Southwest vegetables, including black beans and corn, contribute a good amount of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
• Calcium: The shredded cheese adds calcium, which supports bone health.
• Vitamins: The green onions and tomatoes contribute small amounts of vitamin C, which supports immune function.

However, the dish is a bit high in fat and sodium, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation.

Serving Suggestions

• Top with Sour Cream: Add a dollop of sour cream to each serving to balance out the heat from the enchilada sauce and Ro*Tel tomatoes.
• Serve with a Salad: Pair with a simple green salad to add freshness and lightness to the meal.
• Tacos or Burritos: Serve this casserole alongside some fresh tacos or burritos for a more substantial Mexican-inspired meal.
• Rice: Serve with a side of cilantro-lime rice to make the meal even heartier.

Creative Variations

• Spicy Version: For an extra spicy version, add more diced chilies or jalapeños to the mixture.
• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add more beans and vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or corn to make a vegetarian version of this dish.
• Cheese Variations: Use a combination of cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese for different flavors.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
• Freezing: This casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, bake at 350°F for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until thoroughly heated.

Pro Tips

• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Since the noodles will cook further in the oven, make sure they are uncooked when you add them to the dish.
• Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: If you have a cast-iron skillet, it will help distribute heat evenly and provide better browning of the beef.
• Layering: For extra cheesy goodness, sprinkle some cheese on top of the beef mixture before adding the noodles and bake with a second layer of cheese before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
While egg noodles are traditional in this recipe, you can substitute with any short pasta, such as penne or rotini, if needed.

3. Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! You can add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach, to make the casserole even more nutritious.

4. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, substitute the regular egg noodles with gluten-free pasta, and ensure that your enchilada sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free.

This Beef Taco Noodle Bake is a delicious, hearty dish that combines the comforting flavors of taco night with the ease of a one-pan casserole. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting a casual dinner, this recipe will surely satisfy everyone’s taste buds!

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