Banker'S Casserole
A hearty baked casserole combining seasoned ground beef with creamy macaroni, topped with cheese and crunchy cornflake crumbs. This comforting dish offers rich flavors and a satisfying texture, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, delivering a nostalgic taste of classic American home cooking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix hamburger, ketchup, chopped onion, eggs, milk, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Cook macaroni until tender and drain.
- Add mustard and mayonnaise to the cooked macaroni and mix well.
- Layer the beef mixture and macaroni mixture alternately in a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Sprinkle grated cheese over the top, then sprinkle with cornflake crumbs.
- Drizzle oleo (margarine or butter) over all.
- Bake at 350°F for 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of hamburger. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a healthier twist. If you prefer a spicier dish, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. Ensure you mix the ingredients well for a consistent flavor throughout the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Banker’s Casserole with a fresh side salad, such as Broccoli-Bacon Salad, for a balanced meal. It also pairs nicely with garlic bread or steamed vegetables. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor and a burst of color on the plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Banker'S Casserole contains roughly 527 calories, with 10g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is a good source of protein (19% of the Daily Value) and calcium (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1840mg per serving (80% 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 Banker’s Casserole a day in advance. Assemble the layers in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
What can I use instead of Milnot?
If you don’t have Milnot, you can substitute it with evaporated milk or regular whole milk. Both options will provide a similar creaminess to the casserole. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try using almond milk or other plant-based milk alternatives.
How can I make this casserole vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of Banker’s Casserole, replace the hamburger with cooked lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh or tofu. Adjust the seasoning accordingly for flavor, and ensure the cheese used is vegetarian-friendly if you're avoiding animal rennet.
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).