Betty Jean'S One Dish Meal
A hearty one-dish meal combining ground beef, macaroni, and cheesy goodness, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking a filling, flavorful casserole.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef with chopped onions until fully cooked.
- Mix the browned beef, tomato soup, mushroom soup, water, cooked shell macaroni, chopped olives, and chopped onions and/or green peppers if desired.
- Combine the mixture with most of the grated Cheddar cheese, reserving some for topping.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining Cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or spices like Italian seasoning to the beef while browning. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or chickpeas. You can also use any type of pasta you have on hand instead of shell macaroni. For a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or heavy cream to the soups.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. You can also serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal. For a fun twist, consider topping it with avocado or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until hot, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Betty Jean'S One Dish Meal contains roughly 265 calories, with 9g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 17g 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 498mg per serving (22% 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 freeze this dish?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. To freeze, let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed.
What can I use instead of tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup, you can substitute it with a can of diced tomatoes mixed with a tablespoon of tomato paste for thickness. Alternatively, crushed tomatoes can also work, adding a bit more texture to the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage and store it in the fridge for a day before baking. This allows the flavors to meld nicely. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap until you're ready to bake.
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).