Aunt Mae'S Casserole
A hearty casserole combining ground beef, noodles, tomatoes, peas, and cheese, baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners and comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook chopped onion in a small amount of shortening until tender.
- Add ground beef and cook until the meat separates and changes color.
- Add peas and tomatoes, then cook for 20 minutes.
- Cook noodles in salted water until al dente.
- Layer cooked noodles and meat mixture alternately in a baking dish.
- Add chunks of cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F for about 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef. Feel free to use whole grain or gluten-free noodles depending on dietary needs. Adding a pinch of Italian seasoning can enhance the flavor profile, similar to other comforting American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Mae's Casserole with a simple green salad for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or crusty rolls pair nicely, making it a perfect family dinner. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a side of mashed potatoes. This dish also pairs beautifully with classic comfort foods like Cheesy Steak And Rice.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture and ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Mae'S Casserole contains roughly 1441 calories, with 17g protein, 294g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (67% of the Daily Value), iron (55% of the Daily Value), and protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 798mg per serving (35% 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 substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for the ground beef. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the meat is thoroughly cooked. Each meat will bring its own unique flavor to the dish, making it versatile and enjoyable.
How can I make this casserole vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with a mix of cooked lentils, chickpeas, or a meat substitute like textured vegetable protein (TVP). You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach to enhance the dish's nutrition and flavor.
Is it possible to freeze Aunt Mae's Casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just prepare it, let it cool completely, and then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or transfer to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed 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).