Carol'S Macaroni Casserole
A hearty and creamy macaroni casserole with chipped beef, cheese, and eggs, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions and drain.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, cream of mushroom soup, shredded chipped beef, chopped hard-cooked eggs, milk, chopped onions, and cheese.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture. You can also substitute the chipped beef with cooked ham or turkey for a different flavor profile. If you're looking to add some vegetables, frozen peas or chopped spinach can be excellent additions. Experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella for varied taste.
Serving Suggestions
This macaroni casserole is a comforting main dish that pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside Vickie'S Chili or a warm piece of crusty bread. It also makes for great leftovers, so consider making it for meal prep throughout the week.
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 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carol'S Macaroni Casserole contains roughly 681 calories, with 15g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (40% of the Daily Value), iron (32% of the Daily Value), and protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 885mg per serving (38% 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 up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I freeze the macaroni casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
What kind of cheese works best in this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is a popular choice for its sharp flavor, but you can also use Monterey Jack or a blend for a creamier texture. For a gourmet twist, consider adding a bit of Gruyere or fontina cheese. Mixing different cheeses can enhance the overall flavor.
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).