Carnival Casserole
A hearty, cheesy casserole with ground beef, macaroni, and vibrant tomato salsa, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with chopped onions and green peppers.
- Drain excess fat and liquid.
- Add canned tomatoes (including juice), spices, Karo syrup, and salsa to the beef mixture.
- Cook macaroni until al dente according to package instructions.
- Drain macaroni and stir in cubed Velveeta cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine the macaroni and cheese with the beef mixture.
- Transfer to a baking dish, cover, and bake at 375°F for 40 to 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or cream when mixing in the Velveeta. If you prefer a bit of heat, substitute regular salsa with spicy salsa. You can also swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. To save time, use pre-chopped onions and peppers. This casserole can also be enhanced with shredded cheese on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Carnival Casserole with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. For a fun twist, top with crushed tortilla chips for added crunch. This dish pairs beautifully with hearty American recipes, making it perfect for family gatherings or potlucks. Consider serving it alongside a fruit salad for a colorful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until heated evenly throughout.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carnival Casserole contains roughly 473 calories, with 14g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (42% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (40% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 826mg per serving (36% 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 up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze Carnival Casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze the casserole before or after baking. For best results, cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.
What can I substitute for Velveeta cheese?
If you prefer a different cheese, you can use a mixture of sharp cheddar and cream cheese for a similar creamy consistency. Choose cheeses that melt well for the best results. Experiment with different varieties to find your preferred 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).