Cheesy Beef Noodle Skillet Bake
Indulge in this hearty Cheesy Beef Noodle Skillet Bake, perfect for any family dinner or gathering. This one-pan recipe combines tender egg noodles with seasoned ground beef, zesty tomato sauce, and sweet mexicorn, all topped with a melty layer of cheddar cheese. Quick and easy to prepare, this dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Prepare it ahead of time for a stress-free weeknight meal that everyone will love!
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Medium Egg Noodles
8 ounces (uncooked)
Ground Beef
1.5 lbs (crumbled)
Onion
1 medium (chopped)
Tomato Sauce
8 ounces (canned)
Water
1/2 cup (measured)
Mexicorn
11 ounces (canned and drained)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
Pepper
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
Shredded Cheddar Cheese
1 cup (for topping)
Instructions
1
In a large pot, cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the meat is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
3
Add the tomato sauce, water, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the beef. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
4
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 8 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5
Add the drained mexicorn and cooked egg noodles to the beef mixture. Stir gently to incorporate everything evenly.
6
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture, cover, and cook on low until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through, about 5 minutes.
7
Remove from heat, serve warm, and enjoy your delicious Cheesy Beef Noodle Skillet Bake!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Beef Noodle Skillet Bake?
It is a hearty one-pan meal that combines tender egg noodles with seasoned ground beef, zesty tomato sauce, and sweet mexicorn, all topped with melted cheddar cheese.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 8 servings.
What kind of noodles are used in this skillet bake?
The recipe calls for 8 ounces of uncooked medium egg noodles.
Can I substitute the ground beef with another meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or ground chicken for a leaner option.
What is Mexicorn?
Mexicorn is canned corn that is typically packed with chopped red and green bell peppers for added flavor.
What can I use if I cannot find Mexicorn at the store?
You can use regular canned whole kernel corn and add a small amount of diced red and green bell peppers.
How long do I need to cook the ground beef?
Cook the ground beef with the onion until the meat is no longer pink before draining the fat.
Do I need to cook the egg noodles before adding them to the skillet?
Yes, cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until they are al dente before mixing them into the beef.
Is this a one-pan recipe?
While the final assembly happens in one skillet, you will need a separate pot to boil the egg noodles initially.
What type of cheese is best for the topping?
Shredded cheddar cheese is recommended for its melting quality and flavor profile.
How long does the sauce need to simmer?
The mixture of beef, tomato sauce, and water should simmer for about 8 minutes.
How do I melt the cheese on top?
Sprinkle the cheese over the mixture, cover the skillet, and cook on low for about 5 minutes until melted.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and noodle mixture in advance and then top it with cheese and heat it through when ready to serve.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze Cheesy Beef Noodle Skillet Bake?
Yes, this dish can be frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
How should I reheat the leftovers?
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water if the noodles seem dry.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this is a mild recipe, though the Mexicorn adds a small amount of zesty flavor.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
You can add diced jalapenos, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce mixture.
What side dishes go well with this skillet bake?
A fresh green salad, steamed broccoli, or garlic bread are excellent sides for this meal.
Do I have to drain the ground beef?
Yes, draining the excess fat helps prevent the final dish from being too greasy.
Can I use whole wheat egg noodles?
Yes, whole wheat egg noodles can be used as a healthier substitute for regular noodles.
What size onion should I use?
The recipe suggests using one medium-sized onion, finely chopped.
Can I use tomato puree instead of tomato sauce?
Tomato sauce is preferred for its thinner consistency and seasoning, but puree can work if you add a bit more salt and pepper.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, its cheesy flavor and familiar ingredients make it a popular choice for children.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms can be sautéed with the beef for extra nutrition.
How much salt and pepper should I use?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper, but you can adjust these to your personal taste.
Can I use a different type of cheese like Mozzarella?
Yes, Mozzarella or a Mexican cheese blend would also work well in this recipe.
Do I need a lid for my skillet?
Yes, a lid is necessary to simmer the sauce and to effectively melt the cheese on top.
What is the texture of this dish?
It is a creamy and savory dish with soft noodles, crumbly beef, and a gooey cheese topping.
Can I use fresh corn?
Yes, you can use fresh corn kernels, but you may need to sauté them briefly with the beef to ensure they are tender.