Buffet Casserole
A hearty, cheesy casserole combining ground beef, spinach, and pasta in a flavorful tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners and potlucks.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. lean ground beef ⓘ
- 1 medium onion, chopped ⓘ
- 1 clove garlic, minced ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. salad oil ⓘ
- 1 (10 oz.) pkg. frozen chopped spinach ⓘ
- 1 lb. spaghetti sauce with mushrooms ⓘ
- 1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce ⓘ
- 1 (6 oz.) can tomato paste ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- dash of pepper ⓘ
- 1 (7 oz.) pkg. shell macaroni, cooked ⓘ
- 4 oz. sharp process American cheese, shredded ⓘ
- 1/2 c. soft bread crumbs ⓘ
- 2 well-beaten eggs
Instructions
- Brown beef, onion, and garlic in 1 tablespoon of salad oil.
- Cook spinach and drain, reserving the liquid.
- Add water to make 1 cup, then stir the liquid, tomato sauce with mushrooms, tomato paste, salt, and pepper into the meat mixture and simmer for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the ground beef with a pinch of Italian seasoning or using ground turkey as a substitute for lean ground beef. If you're short on time, frozen spinach can be replaced with fresh spinach; just sauté it until wilted. You can also use any type of pasta you have on hand instead of shell macaroni.
Serving Suggestions
This Buffet Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables or a light vinaigrette dressing to enhance the flavors. For a heartier option, complement it with a slice of Superior Meat Loaf.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and warm on medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed, about 20 minutes, for a crispy top.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buffet Casserole contains roughly 687 calories, with 21g protein, 107g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (53% of the Daily Value), protein (41% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1035mg per serving (45% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole and assemble it in advance, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely.
Is it possible to freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake until warmed through.
What can I substitute for the American cheese?
If you prefer a different cheese, shredded mozzarella or cheddar can be used in place of American cheese for a different flavor profile. Both options melt well and add a delicious creaminess to the 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).