Almond Bake
A hearty baked casserole featuring tender meat, rice, and creamy soups, topped with sliced almonds for added crunch. Perfect for family dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour with the small-cut meat.
- Brown and cook the meat in 1/4 pound of butter until tender.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook 2 cups of rice according to package directions.
- Add cooked rice and beaten eggs to the meat mixture, along with the cans of cream of chicken and mushroom soups.
- Melt 3/4 pound of butter and add cracker crumbs.
- Line pans with the crumb mixture, saving some for the top layer.
- Place sliced almonds on top of the assembled casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1.5 hours.
- Use a 9 x 13-inch pan and an 8 x 11-inch pan. Serves 20.
- This dish freezes well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for the meat. You can also use whole wheat flour instead of regular flour for a healthier option. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rice can be used to save time in the cooking process. Adding some chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh salad, such as a Waldorf Salad With Chicken, to add a refreshing crunch to the meal. You can serve it alongside steamed green beans or a light vegetable medley for a well-rounded dinner. Consider topping with extra sliced almonds for added texture and flavor just before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. This dish also freezes well; just make sure to cool it completely before wrapping tightly and storing in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Almond Bake contains roughly 873 calories, with 12g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 75g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1077mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).
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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking directly from the fridge.
What can I substitute for the cream soups?
If you prefer not to use canned cream soups, you can substitute with a homemade version using a roux made from butter, flour, and broth, then adding cream or milk for creaminess. This will give you a fresher taste while controlling the ingredients.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like carrots, peas, or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish. Just make sure to sauté any raw vegetables before adding them to the meat mixture to ensure they are cooked through.
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).