Betty'S Cheesy Beef Casserole
A hearty, cheesy beef casserole featuring ground beef, macaroni, mushrooms, and jalapeno Cheez Whiz, perfect for comforting family dinners with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with chopped onions and set aside to drain.
- Cook uncooked elbow macaroni and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, jalapeno Cheez Whiz, drained corn, sliced mushrooms, and chopped scallions.
- Add cooked macaroni and beef to the mixture and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, top with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding spices like garlic powder or paprika to the beef while browning. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute ground turkey for the beef. You can also use any type of cheese you like instead of Cheddar, such as Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend. To enhance the dish, try mixing in some diced bell peppers or black beans.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy beef casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. You can also serve it alongside garlic bread for a comforting dinner. For a heartier option, consider a side of roasted potatoes. It's a great dish for potlucks or family gatherings, offering a taste of classic American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but the oven will help maintain the casserole's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Betty'S Cheesy Beef Casserole contains roughly 185 calories, with 6g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium.
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. Assemble it in the baking dish without baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup on hand, you can make a homemade version using a roux of butter, flour, and vegetable broth, then adding sautéed mushrooms and cream. Alternatively, cream of chicken soup works as a suitable substitute if you're not concerned about the mushroom flavor.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or bake from frozen, adding time as needed.
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).