Looking for a quick and delicious meal that will satisfy the whole family? Look no further than this Macaroni and Hot Dog Casserole! With just a handful of simple ingredients and a mere 35 minutes of your time, you can whip up a comforting dish that combines the nostalgic flavors of childhood with a modern twist. Imagine creamy macaroni enveloped in savory tomato sauce, complemented by the satisfying bite of hot dogs and a gooey, cheesy topping that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Ready to dive into this delightful recipe? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked macaroni
- 4 hot dogs, sliced
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups of cooked macaroni, 4 sliced hot dogs, 1 can of tomato sauce, 1 cup of shredded cheese, and 1/2 cup of chopped onion. Make sure to mix the ingredients well until everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of oregano to the mixture. This will enhance the flavor of your casserole. Stir the mixture again to distribute the oregano evenly.
- Transfer the macaroni and hot dog mixture into a greased 9x9 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Sprinkle an additional 1/2 cup of shredded cheese on top of the casserole for a cheesy, golden crust.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will help retain moisture while the casserole bakes.
- Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the casserole to heat through.
- After 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes. This will allow the cheese on top to melt and become bubbly and slightly golden.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will make it easier to cut and serve.
- Serve the macaroni and hot dog casserole warm, and enjoy your delicious and comforting meal!
Tips
- Cook the macaroni al dente: Since the macaroni will continue to cook in the oven, make sure to cook it slightly less than the package instructions suggest to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Customize your toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings! Consider adding breadcrumbs for a crunchy texture or some diced bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
- Experiment with cheeses: While shredded cheese is a classic choice, mixing different types of cheese like mozzarella, cheddar, or even pepper jack can elevate the dish’s flavor profile.
- Let it rest: After baking, allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set, making it easier to cut and serve.
- Make it ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready for a quick and easy meal!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 45mg
