Big Batch Casserole
A comforting baked casserole combining salmon, lean beef, peas, and noodles, all coated in a creamy sauce with Parmesan flavor. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this hearty dish offers a savory blend of flavors and textures that satisfy and delight everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 can condensed cream of celery soup ⓘ
- 1/2 cup Miracle Whip salad dressing ⓘ
- 1/4 cup milk ⓘ
- 1/4 cup Kraft grated Parmesan cheese ⓘ
- 1 pound can salmon, drained and flaked ⓘ
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen peas, cooked ⓘ
- 1 (4 ounce) package noodles, cooked and drained ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon chopped onion ⓘ
- 2 pounds ground lean beef ⓘ
- 1 2/3 cups Pet evaporated milk ⓘ
Instructions
- Put the mixture into an ungreased shallow baking pan.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf with wet hands.
- Bake for 1 hour until cooked through and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like parsley or dill instead of dried spices. You can substitute Greek yogurt for Miracle Whip for a healthier twist, or replace the salmon with tuna if preferred. If you want a vegetarian option, replace the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. Always taste and adjust seasoning before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a fresh side salad for a complete meal or pair it with crusty bread for a comforting dinner. It also goes well with steamed vegetables or a side of rice. Leftover casserole is delicious for lunch the next day and can easily be portioned out for meal prep. Pair with a glass of chilled white wine for a tasty accompaniment.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then bake at 350°F until heated through, about 30-40 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Big Batch Casserole contains roughly 785 calories, with 24g protein, 113g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (54% of the Daily Value), protein (48% of the Daily Value), and calcium (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1063mg per serving (46% 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 a different type of meat in this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. For a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or crumbled tofu as a protein source, which works well and absorbs flavors beautifully.
What can I do if I don't have cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can make a homemade version by combining equal parts of heavy cream and vegetable broth with sautéed celery and onions for flavor. Alternatively, cream of mushroom or chicken soup can be used as substitutes.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add some heat, mix in diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce into the mixture before baking. You could also use spicy cheese or chorizo instead of regular ground beef to give it a kick.
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).