Aunt Mabel'S Casserole
A hearty casserole combining ground beef, vegetables, tomato soup, and cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners with bold flavors and a touch of Spanish flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown chopped onion and green pepper in a little oil.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Chop Spanish olives and add to the mixture.
- Stir in tomato soup and allspice.
- Cook elbow macaroni separately until al dente, drain.
- Combine cooked macaroni with the beef and vegetable mixture.
- Transfer to a casserole dish, top with shredded cheese.
- Bake until cheese is melted and bubbly, about 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try substituting ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also replace elbow macaroni with whole wheat pasta or gluten-free varieties. If you want extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or using diced tomatoes instead of tomato soup. For added texture, toss in some frozen peas or corn before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a comforting touch, serve with a side of homemade coleslaw. It also makes a great dish for potlucks or family gatherings, where you can showcase it alongside other American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power until warmed through, about 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Mabel'S Casserole contains roughly 742 calories, with 25g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (56% of the Daily Value), protein (50% of the Daily Value), and calcium (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2416mg per serving (105% 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 prepare Aunt Mabel's Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Just prepare everything up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of Spanish olives?
If you don't have Spanish olives, green olives or black olives can be a suitable substitute. You might also try capers for a briny kick. Adjust the quantity to your taste, as different olives can vary in saltiness and flavor intensity.
How can I make this casserole more nutritious?
To boost the nutrition, consider adding chopped vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or carrots to the ground beef mixture. Using whole grain pasta can also increase fiber content. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of cheese or opt for a lower-fat variety to make it a bit healthier.
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).