Introduction:
Warm up your dinner table with this delightful Cheesy Noodle Bake! Tender noodles smothered in a rich, creamy sauce and loaded with melted cheeses make this dish a true crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe delivers hearty comfort with every bite.
⏱ Prep Time: 15 minutes
🍳 Cook Time: 30 minutes
⏲ Total Time: 45 minutes
🍽 Servings: 6
🔥 Calories per Serving: ~500 kcal (approx.)
🍝 Ingredients
- 🍜 12 oz egg noodles (or your favorite pasta)
- 🥫 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 🥛 1 cup milk
- 🥄 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 🧀 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 🧀 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 🥩 Optional: 1 cup diced cooked chicken or ham
- 🌿 Salt and pepper, to taste
- 🍞 Optional Topping: 1 cup breadcrumbs mixed with 2 tbsp melted butter
📝 Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare Pasta:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the egg noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Mix the Creamy Sauce:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and sour cream (if using) until smooth.
- Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Gently fold the cooked noodles into the creamy sauce.
- If using, add the diced chicken or ham for extra protein and flavor.
- Assemble the Bake:
- Pour the noodle mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese over the top.
- Add the Crunch (Optional):
- For a delightful crunch, evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden and slightly crisp.
- Serve:
- Allow the cheesy noodle bake to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this comforting, cheesy delight warm!
🤩 Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Noodle Bake:
- Ultimate Comfort Food: Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying—this dish brings together the best of comfort food in one casserole.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite add-ins like chicken, ham, or even veggies for a personal twist.
- Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, perfect for busy nights or family gatherings.
- Easy & Quick: With minimal prep and a straightforward baking process, it’s a go-to recipe for any occasion.
💡 Tips:
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend for varied flavor.
- Veggie Boost: Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas to sneak in extra nutrition.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate. Bake directly from the fridge (you may need to add an extra 5 minutes to the cook time).
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a comforting meal on another day.
Enjoy your Cheesy Noodle Bake—a comforting, cheesy, and utterly satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!