Campin' Casserole
A hearty campfire casserole with ground beef, pasta, and vegetables, perfect for outdoor cooking and satisfying a hungry crowd with comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef, minced onion, and diced green pepper in a large pan or Dutch oven.
- Add the cream of chicken soup, vegetable soup, water, and uncooked macaroni to the pan.
- Cover and simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is cooked and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or a dash of Worcestershire sauce when browning the beef. You can substitute the green pepper with diced zucchini or mushrooms if preferred. If you prefer a creamier texture, try using cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken. Adjust the water based on your desired consistency; less water will yield a thicker casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Campin' Casserole hot, garnished with shredded cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a comforting twist, consider serving it alongside a bowl of Peanut Butter And Pumpkin Soup for a unique combination of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in an oven at 350°F until heated thoroughly, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Campin' Casserole contains roughly 287 calories, with 10g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (108% of the Daily Value) and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1042mg 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?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of simmering, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply bring it to a simmer on the stove and continue as directed. This makes it a great option for meal prep or busy weeknights.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to ground beef. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is properly cooked.
What if I don't have cream of chicken soup?
If you don’t have cream of chicken soup on hand, you can make a homemade version by mixing equal parts of milk and flour with seasonings like chicken bouillon, or substitute with cream of mushroom or creamy celery soup for a different flavor profile.
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).