Entry #2926, October 23, 2013

Sometimes getting the kids to eat healthy food needs a bit of an innovation. If you are a mum who struggles with fussy little eaters then this casserole recipe will help you carefully hide the healthy bits with some delicious noodles and cheese. The Italian seasoning and tangy tomatoes will ensure that this Beef and Cheddar Noodle Casserole is wiped clean.

Easy Family Dinner: Beef and Cheddar Noodle Casserole

Healthy dinner recipe ready in under 60 minutes

Image via: Recipe by photos

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for the baking dish
Salt
3 cups wide egg noodles (about 5 ounces)
1 1/2 cups sour cream
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan
12 ounces ground beef
1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
1 bunch scallions (white and green parts), finely chopped
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
One 14 1/2-ounce can petite diced tomatoes
2 cups grated Cheddar

Hide the healthy goodness with cheese and noodles

Image via: Pipandebby

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Oil a 2-quart baking dish.

2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook to al dente according to the package directions. Drain and put in the prepared baking dish. Toss with the sour cream, Parmesan and 1/4 teaspoon salt.

Makes for a great family dinner

Image via: Southern living

3. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, stirring, until no longer pink, about 4 minutes. Add the bell peppers and scallions and cook until crisp-tender, about 3 minutes. Make a space in the pan, add the tomato paste and toast for a minute. Sprinkle with the Italian seasoning and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Add the diced tomatoes, stir and bring to a simmer. Cook until slightly thickened, about 2 minutes.

4. Pour the beef mixture over the noodles and sprinkle with the grated Cheddar. Bake on the middle rack until the cheese is melted and the edges are bubbling, 15 to 20 minutes. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

This recipe is great for family dinners that need to be prepared in a jiffy.

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