As You Like It Casserole
A hearty casserole combining seasoned ground meat, flavorful spaghetti sauce, and optional vegetables, topped with cornbread for a comforting, customizable family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the optional ingredients: chop onion and garlic, dice green or red pepper, drain can of kidney beans and mushrooms if using.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef or venison until browned.
- Add the onion, garlic, green or red pepper, and cooked until tender.
- Stir in the spaghetti sauce with the additional ingredients if desired.
- Pour the meat and sauce mixture into a casserole dish.
- Prepare the cornbread mix according to package instructions, making enough for 6 muffins.
- Arrange the cornbread batter on top of the meat mixture in the casserole dish.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding spices such as Italian seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you want to add more veggies, consider mixing in some spinach or zucchini. Using leftover spaghetti sauce can save time, and you can also adjust the cornbread mix to make cheesy cornbread for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or grated cheese. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside cornbread or biscuits, making it a comforting choice for family dinners or potlucks.
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) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, making sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of As You Like It Casserole contains roughly 448 calories, with 23g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (45% of the Daily Value) and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 506mg per serving (22% 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 use a different type of meat for this casserole?
Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative for a vegetarian version. Each option will bring a unique flavor, so feel free to experiment based on your preferences.
What can I add to make this casserole more nutritious?
Adding vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or even diced carrots can enhance the nutrition and flavor. Beans are another great addition for extra protein and fiber, complementing the dish well.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you're ready to bake. Just allow extra time in the oven if baking it straight from the fridge.
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).