Cherokee Pie Casserole
Cherokee Pie Casserole combines hearty ground beef, rice, and creamy mushroom soup, topped with melted cheese, creating a comforting, savory dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in olive oil.
- Brown ground beef in the sautéed onion.
- Add thyme, cream of mushroom soup, stewed tomatoes, and instant rice.
- Cook the mixture together for 3 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13 x 2-inch casserole pan.
- Cut the sliced cheese diagonally and place on top of the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F until the cheese melts and bubbles, about 30 to 40 minutes.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
- Serve with a green salad.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef in this Cherokee Pie Casserole. You can also use brown rice instead of instant rice, just adjust the cooking time accordingly. To enhance flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or red pepper flakes. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the meat with cooked lentils or black beans. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Serving Suggestions
Cherokee Pie Casserole is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. You could also serve it alongside crusty bread or corn muffins for added texture. For a heartier meal, consider including a side of roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli. This recipe is a great choice for family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent the cheese from burning and heat at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherokee Pie Casserole contains roughly 453 calories, with 19g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (127% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 13g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 freeze the Cherokee Pie Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole and cover tightly with foil. When you're ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. If freezing after baking, allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with a homemade version or use cream of chicken soup for a different flavor. Alternatively, a mixture of sour cream and a little broth can serve as a creamy base. Simply adjust the seasonings to complement the other ingredients.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking. This is perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.
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).