Beef-Onion-Mac Casserole
Hearty beef and onion casserole with cheesy macaroni, perfect for satisfying family dinners with rich flavors and easy preparation in one dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown meat in a large skillet; drain.
- Stir in onion soup mix, flour, tomato sauce, and water.
- Cover and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in cooked macaroni.
- Pour mixture into a 1 1/2 quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle with grated Cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 15 minutes at 400°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding chopped garlic or bell peppers when browning the beef. If you don’t have onion soup mix, a mix of sautéed onions, garlic, and beef broth can work. You can also substitute macaroni with a different pasta shape or even use whole grain for a healthier twist. For a creamier texture, stir in a little sour cream before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a hearty dinner, consider serving with crusty bread or a side of My Dad'S Barbecue Beans to add a sweet and savory contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef-Onion-Mac Casserole contains roughly 592 calories, with 23g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (47% of the Daily Value) and iron (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 572mg per serving (25% 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 or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can absolutely substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Just be aware that the flavor will be milder, so you might want to add extra seasonings or herbs to enhance the taste.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Certainly! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated thoroughly.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole is versatile and pairs well with many sides. Consider serving it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or even roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. For more hearty options, try it alongside Oven-Easy Beef And Potato Dinner Casserole.
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).