Baked Noodle Casserole with Crispy Fried Onions

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Sure! The dish in the image looks like a Baked Noodle Casserole topped with crispy fried onions – a comforting, hearty, and family-style meal. Below I’ll give you a big, detailed recipe including introduction, history, ingredients, instructions, methods, benefits, formation, nutrition, conclusion, and lovers as you asked.

⭐ Baked Noodle Casserole with Crispy Fried Onions ⭐

📝 Introduction

Baked noodle casserole is a classic comfort food dish that has warmed kitchens and hearts for decades. With its creamy sauce, tender noodles, and golden crispy onion topping, this recipe brings both nostalgia and flavor. It is versatile, easy to prepare in large batches, and perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or potlucks. The balance of creamy, savory, and crunchy textures makes it a dish loved across generations.

📜 History

The baked noodle casserole (sometimes called “noodle bake” or “casserole supreme”) became popular in the United States during the 1930s and 40s when casseroles were promoted as a budget-friendly way to feed families. Ingredients like canned soups, egg noodles, and pantry staples were often combined for simple but hearty meals. The crispy onion topping, famously introduced by the French fried onion craze in the 1950s, elevated the humble casserole into a holiday classic. Today, countless variations exist, from tuna noodle casseroles to chicken and vegetarian versions.

🥘 Ingredients

For the Noodles

  • 12 oz egg noodles (or fusilli/pasta of choice)
  • 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)

For the Creamy Base

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for richness)
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for depth)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or cream cheese
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella/Monterey Jack blend)

For Protein & Veggies (optional, but recommended)

  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (or tuna, ground beef, or tofu)
  • 1 cup peas, carrots, or broccoli (steamed)

For the Topping

  • 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

👩‍🍳 Instructions & Methods

Step 1 – Cook the Noodles

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.
  2. Add egg noodles and cook until al dente (slightly firm).
  3. Drain and set aside.

Step 2 – Make the Cream Sauce

  1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add diced onion and sauté until soft and golden.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Sprinkle flour over and stir to create a roux (thick paste).
  5. Slowly whisk in milk and broth until smooth.
  6. Add Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and paprika.
  7. Simmer until sauce thickens.
  8. Stir in sour cream (or cream cheese) and 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese.

Step 3 – Combine

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked noodles, chicken (or chosen protein), vegetables, and the creamy sauce.
  2. Stir well to coat everything evenly.

Step 4 – Assemble & Bake

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Transfer mixture into a greased casserole dish (or foil tray).
  3. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
  4. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes until bubbly.

Step 5 – Add the Crispy Topping

  1. After 20 minutes, remove casserole and sprinkle crispy fried onions evenly on top.
  2. Return to oven for 5–7 minutes, until golden and crunchy.
  3. Garnish with parsley before serving.

🌱 Benefits

  • Comfort Food: Perfect for warming the soul on cold days.
  • Balanced Meal: Combines protein, carbs, dairy, and veggies in one dish.
  • Customizable: You can swap proteins and vegetables based on taste.
  • Crowd-Friendly: Serves many people, ideal for parties or potlucks.
  • Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients.

🏗️ Formation

  • Base: Egg noodles for body.
  • Cream: Sauce with cheese and milk for richness.
  • Protein: Chicken, tuna, or beef for heartiness.
  • Veggies: Adds nutrition and freshness.
  • Topping: Crispy onions for crunch.

🧮 Nutrition (per serving, approx. 1 cup)

  • Calories: ~380 kcal
  • Protein: 18g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Calcium: 180mg
    (varies depending on ingredients and portion size)

❤️ Lovers

This casserole is loved by:

  • Families looking for easy weeknight dinners.
  • Children who enjoy cheesy pasta dishes.
  • Holiday dinner hosts needing a crowd-pleasing side.
  • Comfort food enthusiasts who crave warm, cheesy meals.

✅ Conclusion

The Baked Noodle Casserole with Crispy Fried Onions is more than just food—it’s tradition, nostalgia, and comfort baked into one dish. Its versatility allows you to make it your own, while the crispy onion topping ensures every bite has a delightful crunch. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to win hearts and appetites alike.

Would you like me to also give you a vegetarian-only version (without meat but still rich and creamy), so you can have both options?

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