Alex'S Casserole
A hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and vegetables, perfect for a comforting family dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and boil the potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, salt, and pepper.
- Brown the hamburger in a skillet, season with salt and pepper, then drain excess grease.
- Add the can of tomato soup to the browned meat and mix well.
- Drain the green beans and add them to the meat mixture, simmering until heated through.
- Spread the meat and vegetable mixture in a baking dish.
- Top with the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat mixture.
- Sprinkle grated cheese over the mashed potatoes.
- Bake at 350°F until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some sautéed onions or garlic with the hamburger. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in sour cream or cream cheese with the mashed potatoes. This dish is versatile, so feel free to add other vegetables like corn or bell peppers, making it similar to a comforting Pig Stew.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Alex's Casserole with a fresh green salad or crusty bread to balance the richness of the dish. For a complete meal, pair it with steamed vegetables or roasted Brussels sprouts. This comforting casserole also goes well with a side of Ten Minute Chili for an extra kick on a chilly evening.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, for about 2-3 minutes, checking to ensure it's heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Alex'S Casserole contains roughly 1012 calories, with 23g protein, 135g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (65% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value), and protein (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 13g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of cheese for this casserole?
Yes, you can definitely experiment with different cheeses. Cheddar is a classic choice, but mozzarella or pepper jack add unique flavors. Just ensure the cheese melts well to achieve that delicious, gooey topping.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the hamburger with plant-based ground meat or lentils for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of the meat juices and consider adding more vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian version.
How can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?
You can prepare the mashed potatoes a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, covered, and reheat gently with a splash of milk or butter before spreading them on the casserole. This will save time on busy days!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).