Aunt Sophie'S Special
A hearty casserole combining savory ground beef, tender macaroni, and flavorful tomato soup, topped with melted cheese—perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Do not dilute the tomato soup.
- Heat the tomato soup and all other ingredients (cooked macaroni, chopped celery, ground beef, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, salt, pepper, garlic, and celery salt).
- Put the mixture into a baking dish.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 45 minutes or until hot.
- Garnish with Parmesan cheese or cheese slices.
- Place back in the oven until the cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a touch of cream cheese or sour cream to the mixture before baking. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can substitute for the beef. Feel free to mix in other vegetables like corn or peas for extra nutrition. Always taste the mixture before baking to adjust seasoning to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Sophie's Special with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a hearty meal. This dish pairs beautifully with garlic bread, making it perfect for family gatherings. You can also complement it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh coleslaw to add some crunch and freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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, covered with foil to retain moisture, or microwave in individual portions until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Sophie'S Special contains roughly 287 calories, with 9g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 687mg per serving (30% 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 ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and it will stay fresh for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake it from the refrigerator and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes such as penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
What can I add to make it spicier?
To add some heat, you can include diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the mixture. Alternatively, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking. These additions will enhance the flavor and give it a nice kick!
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).