Candy'S Party Casserole
A hearty, creamy casserole combining ground meat, noodles, corn, and pimentos in a rich mushroom soup base, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground meat and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Drain excess fat and mixture.
- Add softened cream cheese and stir until melted.
- Stir in drained corn, chopped pimentos, cream of mushroom soup, and milk.
- Mix the sauce with cooked, drained noodles.
- Transfer to a casserole dish and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of sour cream or Greek yogurt alongside the cream cheese. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, try using a meat substitute or additional vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Make sure to cook the noodles al dente, as they will continue to soften while baking.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve with garlic bread or Dinner Rolls From Grit. It’s also great topped with shredded cheese before baking for an extra layer of flavor. Consider garnishing with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
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, covered with foil to retain moisture. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, ensuring they are heated evenly throughout.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candy'S Party Casserole contains roughly 728 calories, with 12g protein, 126g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (32% of the Daily Value), protein (25% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 520mg per serving (23% 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 a day in advance. Simply assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This ensures even cooking and helps avoid a cold center.
What type of noodles work best for this recipe?
Egg noodles are traditionally used for their texture and ability to hold onto the sauce, but you can also use other types like rotini or penne. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions to achieve the perfect consistency before mixing them with the sauce.
Can I freeze Candy's Party Casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. To do so, prepare and assemble the dish, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. It’s a great option for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.
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).