Beef-Oregano Casserole
A hearty beef casserole with savory oregano, mushrooms, and creamy soups, perfect for comforting family dinners and hearty gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the beef cubes, saving the juice.
- Cook the noodles in water with bouillon cubes until most of the liquid is absorbed; do not drain.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef, mushroom soup, milk, onion flakes, oregano, pepper, salt, and 1 tablespoon of margarine.
- Pour the mixture into a large buttered casserole dish.
- Sprinkle cracker crumbs evenly on top.
- Add a little milk if needed to moisten the crumbs.
- Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using beef broth instead of water when cooking the noodles. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef. Fresh mushrooms can be used in place of canned, but you'll need to sauté them first. To add some extra depth, you could mix in some grated cheese before baking. This dish is similar to Southern Hamburger Casserole, so feel free to explore that for more variation.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty and pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also goes nicely with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a comforting twist, serve it alongside a bowl of Quick Autumn Soup, which complements the casserole's flavors beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Beef-Oregano Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, which usually takes about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, covering it to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef-Oregano Casserole contains roughly 825 calories, with 22g protein, 156g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (241% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1527mg per serving (66% 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 different types of meat in this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef or even chicken for the cubed beef. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly, as ground meat will cook faster. For a vegetarian option, consider using a meat substitute like lentils or mushrooms, which can provide a hearty texture.
What can I do if I don't have bouillon cubes?
If you don't have bouillon cubes, you can use beef broth or stock as a substitute for the cooking liquid. Just be mindful of the salt content in your broth, as it may alter the seasoning of the dish. Alternatively, you can make your own broth with water and seasoning if you prefer a homemade touch.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with foil and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly if it's going into the oven cold. This makes it a convenient option for busy days.
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).