Casserole Of Plenty
A creamy, cheesy casserole with tender macaroni, topped with crunchy bread crumbs and infused with herbs and pimiento, perfect for family dinners and comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix hot milk, melted margarine, cheese, bread crumbs, beaten egg, chopped parsley, minced onion, minced pimiento, salt, and pepper.
- Combine the mixture with drained cooked macaroni.
- Pour the mixture into an 8-inch baking dish.
- Place the dish in a pan of water and bake in a 350°F oven for 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the mixture. You can substitute elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer, such as shell or penne. If you want to enhance the flavor, try adding cooked ground meat or sautéed vegetables. Fresh herbs can also elevate the dish—basil or thyme work well in place of parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside garlic bread for a comforting dinner. For a fun twist, consider serving it with a side of Pink Macaroni Salad for a colorful plate that kids will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish covered with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings, adding a splash of milk to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Casserole Of Plenty contains roughly 379 calories, with 7g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 764mg per serving (33% 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 and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This helps ensure even cooking.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
A good melting cheese is crucial for this dish. Cheddar is a classic choice, but you can also use Monterey Jack or a mix of cheeses for added flavor. For a sharper taste, consider incorporating some grated Parmesan or Gruyère.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure that the cheese used is rennet-free if you want to keep it 100% vegetarian. Additionally, you can add more vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
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).