Camper'S Casserole
A hearty casserole combining dried beef, macaroni, and creamy cheese sauce, baked to perfection. Ideal for comfort food lovers and family dinners with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut dried beef into pieces and reserve 1/4 cup for topping.
- Brown the remaining dried beef and chopped onion in drippings; drain excess fat.
- Melt margarine in a saucepan; add flour and blend well.
- Gradually stir in milk and cook slowly, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
- Add Velveeta cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Combine dried beef, cooked onion, cooked macaroni, and cheese sauce in a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Top the casserole with the reserved 1/4 cup dried beef.
- Bake in a 300°F oven for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese to the sauce. If you're short on time, you can substitute the dried beef with shredded rotisserie chicken or ground beef for a different flavor profile. Additionally, using whole wheat macaroni can add a nutty flavor while boosting the dish's fiber content, making it a healthier choice.
Serving Suggestions
This Camper's Casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside garlic bread or a side of roasted potatoes. It's also great topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Camper'S Casserole contains roughly 679 calories, with 13g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (33% of the Daily Value), calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 600mg per serving (26% 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?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of Velveeta cheese?
If you prefer a different cheese, you can use cheddar cheese or a blend of your favorites. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well to achieve a creamy sauce. Adding a bit of cream can also help maintain the creamy texture.
Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed. However, the texture may change slightly after freezing.
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).