Casserole Roma
A hearty casserole layered with potatoes, corn, onion, lean beef, and carrots, topped with spaghetti sauce—perfect for cozy family dinners and comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 3-quart casserole dish or a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Layer sliced potatoes in the dish, then add drained corn, sliced onion, lean ground beef, and sliced carrots in layers.
- Season each layer with salt as you go.
- Pour the spaghetti sauce evenly over the layered ingredients.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1 hour and 45 minutes (1 3/4 hours) until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a layer of cheese between some of the layers, or use a combination of different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor. If you're short on time, pre-cooked or frozen vegetables can be a great substitute for fresh ones. Make sure to season each layer well, as this enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Casserole Roma hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside Quick Stuffed Peppers or a warm bowl of soup to round out your dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Casserole Roma can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Casserole Roma contains roughly 971 calories, with 29g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (71% of the Daily Value), potassium (63% of the Daily Value), and protein (58% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1539mg per serving (67% 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 use a different type of meat in this casserole?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for lean ground beef, offering a lighter option. You could also try using plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version of this dish. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat you choose.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Casserole Roma in advance! Assemble all the layers in the dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready to bake, simply add an extra 15-30 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I do if I don't have Ragu spaghetti sauce?
If Ragu spaghetti sauce isn't available, any jarred marinara or pasta sauce will work well. You can also make a simple homemade sauce using crushed tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs for a fresh taste. Just ensure the sauce is well-seasoned to enhance the flavor of the casserole.
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).