Aunt Vesta'S Casserole
A hearty casserole combining ground beef, onions, peas, and melted cheese, baked to perfection—ideal for comforting family dinners and easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
- In a greased 9 x 13-inch pan, layer the ingredients in order: raw crumbled hamburger, diced onion, frozen peas, mushroom soup, and slices of cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the hamburger and onion together before layering. You can substitute the mushroom soup with cream of chicken for a different taste or use homemade soup for a healthier option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the hamburger with lentils or a meat substitute. Additionally, adding spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning can enhance the overall flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Aunt Vesta's Casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Colorful Veggie Bake or roasted vegetables. This dish is also great for potlucks and family gatherings, offering a hearty option for everyone.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or reheat the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until heated through. This will help retain the texture and flavor of the dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Vesta'S Casserole contains roughly 181 calories, with 9g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 760mg per serving (33% 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 ground turkey instead of hamburger?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the hamburger to make a lighter version of the casserole. It will still provide a delicious base, but keep in mind that turkey may result in a slightly different flavor and texture.
How can I make this casserole ahead of time?
You can prepare the casserole a day in advance by layering the ingredients in the pan and covering it tightly with foil. Store it in the refrigerator and bake it when you're ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I do if I don't have frozen peas?
If you don't have frozen peas, you can substitute them with other frozen vegetables like corn or mixed veggies. Alternatively, fresh vegetables can be used, but make sure to cook them slightly before layering to ensure they are tender by the end of baking.
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).