Baked Dressing Casserole
A hearty baked casserole combining savory stuffing, ground beef, and creamy soups, perfect for a comforting family dinner or holiday gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and drain excess fat.
- Mix the cooked ground beef with the stuffing, including all seasonings.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 2-quart baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, and water until well combined.
- Pour the soup mixture over the stuffing and beef in the baking dish.
- Bake at 325°F for 30 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or bell peppers to the ground beef. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a creamier texture, add a bit of sour cream to the soup mixture. For added crunch, mix in some chopped celery or almonds before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Dressing Casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a comforting touch, serve it alongside warm bread or rolls. It also goes well with recipes like Robin'S Hearty Chicken Soup for a hearty dinner combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or place the casserole back in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Adding a splash of water can help prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Dressing Casserole contains roughly 406 calories, with 21g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 990mg per serving (43% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you don't have cream of chicken soup, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce. This will maintain the creamy texture while adding a different flavor profile, making it a versatile dish for various preferences.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To bake from frozen, just add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time. If freezing leftovers, ensure they are in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
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).