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Reame’s Baked Italian Beef & Noodles: A Hug in a Casserole Dish

There are certain dishes that just feel like home, no matter where you are. For me, Reame’s Baked Italian Beef & Noodles is one of those culinary comfort blankets. I remember stumbling upon this recipe tucked away on the back of a package of Reame’s frozen noodles years ago, a humble offering from a brand I hadn’t explored before. Skeptical but intrigued, I whipped it up, fully expecting it to be just another weeknight meal. The surprise came not just from my own enjoyment, but from the unadulterated joy on my kids’ faces as they devoured every last bite. That immediate, enthusiastic reception transformed a simple recipe into a beloved family staple, a testament to its unpretentious deliciousness.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Yield: 1 (2-quart) casserole
Dietary Type: Italian-American Comfort Food

Ingredients

This recipe is a beautiful example of how simple, quality ingredients can come together to create something truly special. It’s the kind of dish that feels hearty and satisfying, perfect for a chilly evening or when you just need a little culinary pick-me-up.

1 (12 ounce) package Reame’s frozen noodles
1 lb ground chuck, browned and drained
1 medium onion, chopped
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/8 teaspoon salt
4 ounces sliced button mushrooms
15 ounces tomato sauce
1 1/2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese, for topping

Equipment Needed

To bring this comforting dish to life, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

A large pot for boiling the noodles.
A skillet for browning the ground chuck and sautéing the onions.
A 2-quart casserole dish for baking.
A measuring cup and measuring spoons.
A colander for draining the noodles.

Instructions

The beauty of Reame’s Baked Italian Beef & Noodles lies in its straightforward preparation. It’s a recipe designed for ease without compromising on flavor, making it a perfect choice for both novice cooks and seasoned home chefs.

Begin by cooking the noodles. Bring a large pot of boiling water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the 12-ounce package of Reame’s frozen noodles to the boiling water. Cook them according to the package directions, which typically requires about 20 minutes. Once cooked to your desired tenderness, drain them thoroughly in a colander. Set aside.
While the noodles are cooking, turn your attention to the savory meat mixture. In a skillet, brown the 1 lb of ground chuck over medium-high heat. Once the beef is no longer pink, drain off any excess grease.
To the skillet with the browned ground chuck, add the 1 medium chopped onion. Sauté the onion with the beef until it becomes tender and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
Now, it’s time to introduce the seasonings. Sprinkle in the 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Stir well to combine, allowing the aromatic spices to meld with the beef and onions.
Add the 4 ounces of sliced button mushrooms to the skillet. Continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the mushrooms have softened slightly.
Stir in 1 cup of the shredded mild cheddar cheese into the meat and mushroom mixture. Mix until the cheese has begun to melt, creating a richer, more cohesive filling.
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
Prepare your 2-quart casserole dish. Carefully pour the cooked noodles into the bottom of the casserole dish.
Next, spoon the meat mixture evenly over the layer of noodles. Ensure the beef and mushroom mixture is distributed as uniformly as possible.
Gently pour the 15 ounces of tomato sauce over the meat and noodle layers. Spread it out to cover the surface.
Place the casserole dish in the preheated 350 degree Fahrenheit oven. Bake for 25 minutes. This initial baking period allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to heat through.
After 25 minutes, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Top the entire surface with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. For an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful golden crust, sprinkle the top generously with grated Parmesan cheese.
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is lightly golden.

Expert Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Reame’s Baked Italian Beef & Noodles experience, consider these chef-inspired insights:

Noodle Perfection: While Reame’s frozen noodles are designed for convenience, don’t overcook them in the initial boiling stage. They will continue to cook in the oven, so al dente is your goal.
Browning is Key: Ensure your ground chuck is thoroughly browned and well-drained. This removes excess fat and concentrates the beef’s flavor, preventing a greasy final product.
Fresh Aromatics: For an even more vibrant flavor profile, consider using 1-2 cloves of minced fresh garlic instead of garlic powder. Add it during the last minute of sautéing the onions for maximum aroma.
Mushroom Magic: If you’re a mushroom enthusiast, feel free to use a bit more than 4 ounces. Cremini mushrooms can offer a deeper, earthier flavor than button mushrooms.
Cheese Blend: While mild cheddar is specified, don’t be afraid to experiment with a touch of mozzarella for extra stringiness or a sharper cheddar for a more pronounced cheese flavor.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This dish is a crowd-pleaser, best served warm, straight from the oven. It’s a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad tossed with a vinaigrette to cut through the richness.

Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for about 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps it set slightly, making it easier to serve neat portions. Scoop generous servings into bowls.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, cover the casserole dish with foil and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Nutritional Information

Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	732.8 kcal
Calories from Fat		250 g
Total Fat	27.9 g	42 %
Saturated Fat	13.6 g	68 %
Cholesterol	190 mg	63 %
Sodium	1005 mg	41 %
Total Carbohydrate	73.3 g	24 %
Dietary Fiber	5.2 g	20 %
Sugars	8.1 g	32 %
Protein	47.1 g	94 %

Variations & Substitutions

While this recipe is fantastic as is, you can certainly adapt it to suit your preferences:

Meat Swap: Ground beef with a higher fat content can add more flavor, but be sure to drain it well. For a lighter option, consider ground turkey or chicken, though the flavor profile will shift.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the ground chuck and double the mushrooms. You could also add other vegetables like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for added texture and nutrition.
Spice Level: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheese combinations like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a touch of provolone for a more complex cheese profile.

FAQs

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to the point of baking. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Q: What kind of noodles work best if I can’t find Reame’s frozen noodles?
A: Any wide egg noodles or even lasagna noodles broken into pieces would work as a substitute, but be sure to cook them according to their package directions.

Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: This recipe is not inherently spicy. The seasonings are mild and focused on Italian herbs. You can add red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicier dish.

Q: How do I prevent the noodles from becoming mushy?
A: Ensure you cook the noodles until they are al dente and drain them thoroughly before assembling the casserole. They will continue to cook in the oven.

Q: Can I freeze this baked casserole?
A: Yes, once cooled, you can freeze the baked casserole. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or transfer to a freezer-safe container. It should last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Final Thoughts

Reame’s Baked Italian Beef & Noodles is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s about the simple joy of a hearty, flavorful meal that brings everyone to the table. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most delicious dishes come from the most unexpected places. I encourage you to give this comforting casserole a try – it’s sure to become a cherished part of your own culinary repertoire. Perhaps serve it alongside some garlic bread to sop up any leftover sauce and a glass of your favorite Italian red for a truly satisfying experience. Enjoy every comforting, cheesy bite!

Reame’s Baked Italian Beef & Noodles Recipe